The Desperate Lakers: LeBron James’ Injury and the Need for Playoff Push in the Western Conference

The Lakers are currently in ninth place in the Western Conference with a record of 39-32, and they are in desperate need of wins to secure a spot in the playoffs. They are trailing the eighth-seed Phoenix Suns by 2.5 games (two in the loss column), but they have already clinched the tiebreaker. In order to move up to the eighth seed, the Lakers need to win 7 out of their final 11 games while also hoping the Suns lose 6 or more games.

The Lakers have been closely monitoring LeBron James’ ankle issue, known as left ankle peroneal tendinopathy, since before the All-Star break. Prior to and following the break, James missed games to allow more time for his foot to heal. As a result, he will not be playing on Tuesday night against the Milwaukee Bucks in a game that will be nationally televised.

LeBron James remains a vital player for the Lakers, serving as the energy barometer for the team in his 21st NBA season at age 39. His performance greatly impacts the team’s success, as they are much stronger when he is playing at his best. Without him, more responsibility falls on Anthony Davis, as well as shot creators like D’Angelo Russell and Spencer Dinwiddie.

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