LeBron James injury update: Lakers star out vs. 76ers, day-to-day with knee issue

Nick Metallinos

LeBron James injury update: Lakers star out vs. 76ers, day-to-day with knee issue image

It seems like as soon as the Lakers get one of their Big Three back, they lose another. 

According to The Athletic's Shams Charania, James will miss Friday night's Lakers game against the 76ers in Philadelphia with a sore left knee. This follows the return of Anthony Davis after over a month on the sidelines with an MCL injury. 

What's next for James and the Lakers? Here's what we know about his status and potential return to action.

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Why is James missing the 76ers game? 

James played against the Brooklyn Nets two nights ago and finished with 33 points, seven rebounds and six assists in the win. This injury could be the flare-up of an old injury, or the workload that James has had to endure this season could be taking its toll on his body. 

James has had to play more this season as the Lakers have battled both Covid related absences and injury. Most recently, Davis missed a chunk of games.  

So far this season, James is averaging 29.1 points per game – good for second in the league behind Kevin Durant.

How long will LeBron James be out?

James is currently listed as day-to-day by the Lakers. 

The last time the veteran superstar missed a game for Los Angeles was back on November 30, when the Lakers faced the Sacramento Kings. 

Since then, James has played every game for the Lakers, averaging 30.5 points on 53.7 percent shooting over the last 25 game stretch. 

Lakers upcoming schedule 2021-22

Date Opponent Time (ET) National TV
Jan. 27 at 76ers 7:30 p.m. TNT
Jan. 28 at Hornets 7:30 p.m ESPN
Jan. 30 at Hawks 1:00 p.m.
Feb. 2 vs. Trail Blazers 10:30 p.m.
Feb. 3 at Clippers 10:00 p.m. TNT
Feb. 5 vs. Knicks 8:30 p.m. ABC

 

Nick Metallinos

Nick Metallinos Photo

Nick has been working exclusively within the NBA world for over a decade. He hosted 46 episodes of Ball or Nothin' - a show screened on ESPN highlighting the social media aspects of the NBA. Nick has covered 3 NBA Finals, 5 NBA All-Star weekends, 8 NBA drafts, 5 Jordan Brand Classics plus dozens of playoff games and hundreds of regular season games. 
Nick spends his spare time trying to decide which sneakers best match his outfit.