VIDEO: Rashad McCants hilariously takes off Lebron James jersey after his air ball vs. Timberwolves

LeBron's struggles from the perimeter

After a strong start to the 2024-25 regular season, Los Angeles has stumbled to a 12-9 record following a blowout loss to the Wolves. They have gone 2-2 in their past four contests, but James' futile record from beyond the arc has been a bigger story in Lakers Land.

His fumble, which led to McCants recanting his uncharacteristic support, was just one of four missed attempts from three-point land on Monday. That means LeBron has now clanked 19 straight three-pointers.

It's unclear why his efficiency from long range has fallen off a cliff, as he had shot 43.0 percent in the first 15 games. The Lakers superstar's season percentage (34.5 percent) has regressed to similar to his career shooting (34.8 percent).

James' heat check, which would have broken his ignominious streak, would have been forgivable on Monday had the Lakers not faced a considerable deficit against Minnesota. Only former Timberwolf D'Angelo Russell decided to show up for the matchup. Yet, coach JJ Redick opted not to ride the point guard's hot hand.

LeBron's decline

The Lakers couldn't rally for a comeback win, with James checking out of the contest after getting his 10th point to push his double-digit scoring streak to 1,505. He finished the evening shooting 4-16 from the field and registering a game-worst plus/minus of -28.

It remains to be seen if the four-time MVP can still recover from what might be his worst season since his rookie campaign. He has still displayed his all-around game, putting up 8.0 rebounds and 9.1 assists per contest. On the other hand, his average scoring of 22.6 points per meeting is his worst mark since registering 20.9 points per game in his first year in the league.

A few weeks ago, James admitted that his time in the NBA could be numbered. Now, he might have to start facing the music. But if the Lakers find a way to bolster the roster and get the four-time champion some more help, they could spend more years with the future Hall of Famer.