Is LeBron James playing tonight against Detroit Pistons? Latest on 4x NBA champ's status (Dec. 23)
LA Lakers superstar LeBron James is questionable to play on Monday against the Detroit Pistons. The four-time NBA champion is on the injury report again, citing his left foot issue. James has dealt with it for almost two years now. He first suffered the injury in February 2023.
The injury has prevented him from participating in two games. He has played the other 26 games and is expected to suit up again. Despite the 50-50 status, James has played over the past three games. The Lakers have caught a much-wanted rhythm with four wins in five outings, so it makes sense to deploy James if he's good to go before game time.
LeBron James stats vs. Detroit Pistons
LeBron James has averaged 24.1 points, 6.7 rebounds and 7.2 assists in 64 games against the Detroit Pistons. He has shot 47.4%, including 31.8% from 3. James has been on the winning side 42 times.
However, that wasn't the case when the Lakers last faced the Pistons on Nov. 4. LA suffered a disappointing 116-103 loss in a game in which Detroit led by 20 points at one stage. The Lakers never found a rhythm against Cade Cunningham and Co.
Outside Anthony Davis' 37 points and nine-rebound showing, the Lakers didn't show any fight. LeBron James struggled on offense, tallying 20 points on 7 of 16 shots. He added 11 assists and eight rebounds.
James and Co. will hope to avenge that loss amid their recent surge in form. The Lakers have been the best defensive team in the last five-game stretch, producing a 99.2 rating and conceding 100 or fewer points in four contests.
How to watch LeBron James in action during Detroit Pistons vs. LA Lakers game?
FanDuel Sports Network Detroit and Spectrum SportsNet will provide local coverage of the Detroit Pistons-LA Lakers game. Other viewers can catch live action online via NBA League Pass. The game begins at 10:30 p.m. ET at the Crypto.com Arena, the Lakers' homecourt.
The Lakers are 16-12 entering this clash, sixth in the West. Meanwhile, the 12-17 Pistons are 10th in the East. Despite losing their last game against the Pistons, the Lakers are a -6-point favorite to win with a -225 money line.