Lakers superstar LeBron James has followed medical advice and returned to Los Angeles to treat a groin strain, according to a source, Shams reported to ESPN. Although his recovery is progressing well, he will miss the team’s road games against the Bucks on Friday and the Nuggets on Saturday.
Medical expert Jeffries agrees. The Lakers later released an injury report for tomorrow’s game against the Bucks. According to the report, Doncic has a 50-50 chance of playing with a sprained ankle, while Hayes (knee), Hachimura (patellar tendinitis), Klebel (recovering right foot) and James (groin strain) will all miss the game. Fortunately, Finney Smith is not on the injured list, he is sure to play against the Bucks.
The Bucks, Portis suspended, Lillard (groin) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf) are likely to play, but Livingston’s status is questionable, Smith is likely to miss.
Lakers reporter Woike said James has improved significantly since Redick had a motivational conversation with him before a game against the Heat in early December. “The Lakers have been pretty good since then,” Woike said. Lebron is playing at his best level for a while. He has excelled at both ends of the floor and has become the core of the team’s defense. His energy and effort over the last 40 games has been amazing.” Woike also said that while James’ groin injury could keep him out a week or two or more, the team isn’t concerned that he won’t be able to return for the rest of the regular season. “James was so good, it was his best regular season since he won the championship in 2019-20,” he said. The Lakers are currently third in the Western Conference with a 40-23 record, while the Bucks are fourth in the Eastern Conference with a 36-28 record.
