Los Angeles Lakers superstar Lebron James reportedly is dealing with an ankle injury that doesn’t have an immediate fix since it is very much an issue related to his advanced age for an NBA player.
Despite turning 39 in December, 20-time All-Star Lebron James is still competing at an elite level. Even with a fellow All-Star on the roster in Anthony Davis, the NBA great leads the Lakers in points, assists, steals, and is just .7 away from playing the most minutes per game.
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However, in recent years the four-time MVP has been far more susceptible to injuries and has suited up in 60 or more games just once in the last six seasons. He even famously battled through a serious foot injury last spring to lead the surprise Lakers to the Western Conference finals. Nevertheless, James’ age is starting to catch up and recently it has come in the form of an ongoing ankle issue.
After LA’s 130-120 loss to the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday, James had his left ankle examined by medical staff. The testing had members of the media curious and the NBA legend tried to brush off the issue. “I’ll be all right. It’s just my ankle,” he said. “It’s just what I’ve been dealing with before the [All-Star] break, after the break. I’m just managing it the best way I can.”
- Lebron James stats (2023-24): 25.3 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 8.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 41% 3PT
Lebron James ankle problem a ‘wear and tear’ issue for a legend who is getting old
Well, some extra information was revealed about his ankle on Thursday and it seems like the problem will be around for at least the rest of the season. According to a source who spoke with ESPN, the ankle pain is being caused by “wear and tear” for the 39-year-old who is in his 21st season.
“Some games are better than others,” James said. “I didn’t feel it at all against OKC. And I didn’t feel it at all until the fourth quarter tonight. So, each game, each day is different.”
This latest issue is just the latest example of how even legends get old and the NBA window for Lebron James is getting closer to being shut.