Lakers’ LeBron James decision
The Lakers have a tough decision when it comes to integrating LeBron James back into what they’re doing.
- LeBron James will miss the Lakers’ game against the New Orleans Pelicans due to a left foot injury.
- James previously missed 14 games this season while dealing with sciatica.
- In four games played, James is averaging 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 8.3 assists.
- It is currently unclear if he will play in the second game of the back-to-back series against the Phoenix Suns.
The Los Angeles Lakers will be without star forward LeBron James tonight as the Lakers play against the New Orleans Pelicans in the first night of back-to-back home games, according to ESPN.
James, 40, already missed the first 14 games of the Lakers’ season while dealing with sciatica, and is now dealing with a left foot injury that will keep him on the sidelines at least for tonight, though it is currently unclear whether or not his absence is due to load management or the injury itself.
LeBron James 2025-26 stats
Though he has appeared in just four games thus far, James has performed well when he has played, averaging 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds per game and 8.3 assists per game while shooting 49.1 percent from the field.
He was crucial in the Lakers’ 135-118 win over their cross-town rivals, the Clippers on Nov. 25, when he dropped 25 points.
Will James play tomorrow vs. Phoenix?
It is currently unclear whether or not James will play in the second game of Los Angeles’ back-to-back contests. James’ presence would give the Lakers a massive boost against the 12-9 Suns.
As of now though, it appears likely that James will suit up for Monday night’s contest. But that has yet to be confirmed.
Even without James, the Lakers have set themselves up well for success in the crowded Western Conference. They currently sit at 14-4, good for second place in the Western Conference.
