LeBron James has been listed as questionable for the Los Angeles Lakers’ matchup with the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday due to a sore left ankle. This news comes after James sat out the Lakers’ win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday, raising concerns about his fitness for the upcoming game.
After playing 36 total minutes against the Kings, the 21-year veteran exited the floor with around four minutes left on the clock, visibly grimacing in pain. Despite downplaying the severity of the injury, James acknowledged that he has been managing the ankle issue for some time.
Lakers head coach Darvin Ham described James’ condition as ‘severe soreness’ and indicated that he is considered ‘day-to-day.’ ESPN reported that the ankle pain is the result of ‘wear and tear,’ highlighting the toll that the rigorous NBA season has taken on James.
Despite his remarkable durability this season, with just nine missed games, the Lakers will need to carefully manage James’ health as they battle for playoff positioning. With the Lakers currently in ninth place in the Western Conference, three games behind the sixth-place Phoenix Suns, James’ availability will be crucial in determining their postseason fate.
Following the win over the Bucks, the Lakers improved to 35-30, but their recent 5-4 record since the All-Star break suggests a challenging road ahead. The team faces tough matchups against the Timberwolves, Kings, and Golden State Warriors, making James’ potential absence a cause for concern.
As the Lakers navigate this critical phase of the season, the spotlight remains firmly on James’ recovery and availability. His health will undoubtedly shape the team’s fortunes as they strive to secure a coveted playoff spot in the competitive Western Conference.
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