Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James will be out for approximately one to two weeks after suffering a groin strain in Saturday night’s game against the Boston Celtics. The 39-year-old veteran exited the game in the fourth quarter after an awkward pivot while attempting a shot over Jaylen Brown.
Despite the injury, James reassured fans that he isn’t overly concerned, stating it feels less severe than the groin strain he endured in 2018, which sidelined him for 17 games. He will undergo further evaluation after a 24-hour rest period to determine the next steps.
Impact on the Lakers and Upcoming Games
James’ absence comes at a crucial point in the season, with the Lakers set to face tough opponents, including back-to-back matchups against the Milwaukee Bucks and Denver Nuggets. His leadership, scoring ability, and court vision have been instrumental in the Lakers’ recent success, making his temporary loss a significant hurdle.
Without James, the Lakers will need increased contributions from Anthony Davis, D’Angelo Russell, and Austin Reaves. The team’s depth will be tested as they attempt to maintain their playoff positioning in the competitive Western Conference.
James’ Recovery and Return Timeline
While James is expected to miss at least a week, his return will depend on how quickly his groin heals. Given his history of managing injuries, the Lakers are likely to take a cautious approach to avoid any long-term setbacks. He has remained with the team on their current road trip and will continue rehabilitation under the guidance of the Lakers’ medical staff.
With 58 games played this season, James has been averaging 25 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game while shooting 52% from the field. His performance has been crucial in keeping the Lakers competitive, and his return will be eagerly anticipated as the team fights for playoff seeding.
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