Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James sat out his first game of the 2023-24 NBA season on Sunday against the Portland Trail Blazers due to left foot soreness. It was the first time he has missed a game this season, but James has shown durability in his career, playing for 22 years in the league.
Injury Setback For LeBron James
Forward 39-year-old James started experiencing discomfort in his left foot during the loss against Miami Heat on Wednesday. Nevertheless, he played with pain on Friday when they played Atlanta Hawks, an overtime game that was too close, as he accumulated season-high 43 minutes. That night, LeBron James managed to score 39 points from 14-of-25 shooting with 11 assists, 10 rebounds, and 3 blocks.
LeBron’s Season-High Performance
Of all the high spots on the season thus far has been James’s play over Atlanta, a true talent for delivering under adverse circumstance. For the season so far, he’s playing at 23 points game, shooting at 49.5%, and hit 35.9% from three-pointers. From the scoring side, he also brings 9.1 assists and 8.0 rebounds per game-one of the most impressive in NBA history at this stage in a player’s career.
Uncertainty Surrounds LeBron’s Availability
Heading into Sunday’s game, James was listed as doubtful for the game against the Trail Blazers. However, he was upgraded to probable in the morning. Still, he was downgraded back to doubtful hours before tipoff when the team had its walk-through, confirming that he would not play.
“With LeBron out, we’re going to have to move, we’re going to have to cut, we’re going to have to pass,” Lakers coach JJ Redick said before the Blazers game. “We’re going to have to play in transition. And I think overall for our team, just getting back to really emphasize trying to get a paint touch on every possession. We were doing that earlier in the year and have gotten away from that and need to get back to that.” as quoted by ABC
Lakers’ Upcoming Schedule Offers Rest For James
The Lakers’ next game is not until Friday against the Minnesota Timberwolves, giving James a much-needed break. The team also has a practice scheduled for Wednesday, allowing the veteran star some time to recover. NBA analysts, including JJ Redick, have suggested that the extended break could benefit the 22-year veteran and help him manage his workload throughout the season.
“You don’t want him out of the lineup, that’s for sure, but he has an opportunity to get four days’ rest before we practice again,” Redick said. “So, it could be really good for him.” as quoted by ABC
Austin Reaves Also Out with Injury
In addition to James, the Lakers guard, Austin Reaves, didn’t play in his fifth consecutive game with a contusion on the left pelvis. Without both these players, the Lakers go short-handed but will continue to build their strength, preparing them for their next match.
