Los Angeles Lakers All-Star LeBron James has missed the playoffs for the first time since the 2004-05 NBA season, which was his second with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Additionally, James’ streak of consecutive NBA Finals appearances was snapped at eight years.
James and the Lakers were officially eliminated from playoff contention when they lost to D’Angelo Russell and the Brooklyn Nets in the 72nd game of the season.
After winning three championships in eight combined trips to the Finals with the Cavaliers and Miami Heat, James signed a four-year, $154 million contract with the Lakers in free agency last summer.