The highly anticipated partnership between Los Angeles Lakers stars LeBron James and Luka Doncic is temporarily paused, as James will be sidelined for at least a week, potentially longer. The Lakers have decided to send him back to Los Angeles for medical treatment, ruling him out for the remainder of their current road trip. This news was reported by Shams Charania of ESPN on March 12th.
Doc Send LeBron James Home, As Los Angeles Lakers Face Road Back-to-Back
“Lakers’ LeBron James has returned to Los Angeles, per medical recommendation, as he continues to progress well from a groin strain with the team finishing road trip Thursday in Milwaukee and Friday in Denver, league sources tell ESPN,” Charania stated on X (formerly Twitter).
James’ groin injury is expected to keep him out for up to two weeks, causing him to miss crucial games against the Milwaukee Bucks and Denver Nuggets, both formidable playoff contenders. He sustained the injury during a fourth-quarter rally against the Boston Celtics, exiting the game and contributing to the Lakers’ loss. He also missed the subsequent game against the Brooklyn Nets, which resulted in another Lakers loss, extending their losing streak to two games. Prior to James’ injury, the Lakers had been on an eight-game winning streak since acquiring Luka Doncic.
The Lakers are now facing a depleted roster as they seek their first win on this road trip. With a challenging schedule ahead, every game is vital. The defensive presence of Hayes and Finney-Smith would be beneficial, and while Hayes will miss at least one more game, Finney-Smith is expected to return. The Bucks have added motivation, as this game marks Darvin Ham’s first coaching appearance against his former team, although they will be without Bobby Portis due to suspension.
Despite the groin injury, James’ 22nd NBA season has been remarkable, marked by exceptional durability. He has played in 58 of the Lakers’ 63 games, missing only five. With James sidelined, the Lakers’ front office, led by Rob Pelinka, will gain a clearer understanding of the team’s future. Doncic, who has quickly integrated himself into the team, will need to step up as a leader. This period provides an opportunity for the Lakers to evaluate their strengths and weaknesses before the playoffs, which could prove crucial in their pursuit of a championship.