Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James was on the court for Sunday’s NBA All-Star Game. He did not seem to be struggling with any type of injury.
That’s why the Lakers’ injury report ahead of Thursday’s game against the Golden State Warriors is so surprising. James has already been ruled out with what Los Angeles describes as left ankle peroneal tendinopathy.
The injury itself is somewhat new for James. It’s a condition that causes pain around the outside of the ankle. It eases up with rest and worsens with physical activity. Hence, why James has already been ruled out for the Lakers’ first game after the break.
Related: LeBron James admits NBA career is nearing an end during All-Star Weekend reflection
LeBron James stats (2023-24): 24.8 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 7.8 APG, 52% shooting
James’ status for Thursday’s road date with the Warriors is no small thing. Los Angeles finds itself at 30-26 on the season and just 1.5 games ahead of Golden State for the ninth spot out west. The team is also 3.5 games behind the Phoenix Suns for the sixth spot, which would enable the Lakers to avoid the dreaded play-in tournament.
The Lakers find themselves at 4-3 in the seven games James has sat out this season. That included a win over the Utah Jazz heading into the All-Star Break.
As for Thursday’s game against the Warriors, it will be the first of three between the Pacific Division rivals over the final six weeks or so of the regular season.