Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James will be missing Sunday's game against the Portland Trail Blazers due to left foot soreness, marking his first absence of the season. The 39-year-old had initially been listed as probable before being downgraded to doubtful shortly before tipoff and eventually ruled out.
James, who has played in all 23 games for the Lakers this season, has been a key contributor with averages of 23.0 points, 9.1 assists, and 8.0 rebounds per game. Despite his efforts, the Lakers have struggled recently, losing seven of their last nine games and currently holding a 12-11 record.
In their most recent game against the Atlanta Hawks, which ended in a 134-132 overtime loss, James recorded his seventh triple-double of the season, tallying 39 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds. This marked the 119th triple-double of his illustrious career.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick expressed optimism about James' absence, suggesting that the rest could benefit the veteran player, especially with the team not playing again until Friday when they face the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Aside from James, the Lakers were also missing Austin Reaves for the fifth consecutive game due to a left pelvic contusion. However, Anthony Davis was active despite being listed as probable with left plantar fasciitis.
James, now in his 22nd NBA season, boasts impressive career averages of 27.1 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 8.0 assists in regular-season games. In playoff games, he has maintained averages of 28.4 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 7.2 assists over 287 appearances, having reached the postseason 17 times.
With James sidelined, the Lakers will look to regroup and prepare for their upcoming matchups as they aim to improve their standing in the competitive Western Conference.
For more NBA news and updates, visit AP NBA.
