Is LeBron James playing tonight against the Portland Trail Blazers? | January 22nd, 2023 | 2022-23 NBA Season
LeBron James and the LA Lakers are coming off a fresh 122-121 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday night. The Lakers managed to steal the victory over the Grizzlies after a clutch defensive effort from Dennis Schroder.
The German star stripped the ball away from Desmond Bane with 10 seconds left on the clock. After securing the steal, Schroder sealed the victory with a game-winning layup.
The victory over Memphis is a huge momentum boost for the Lakers as they are scratching and clawing their way to a playoff spot. Next up on LA's schedule are the Portland Trail Blazers.
If Lakeshow defeats the Trail Blazers, this will allow them to move up to the 12th seed. However, will the Purple and Gold be able to do so without LeBron James by their side?
LeBron James is listed as questionable once again for their game in Portland due to the same left ankle soreness he's been dealing with all season long. There haven't been any official updates regarding James' injury. However, based on how he's played five straight games, it's likely that LBJ will play against the Trail Blazers.
Will LeBron James ever recover from his left ankle soreness?
Ever since Anthony Davis was sidelined in mid-December, LeBron James and Russell Westbrook have had to shift gears. James, who was expected to play at a less intense pace, was forced to put the LA Lakers on his back once again.
As a result, LBJ doesn't have enough time to give his sore ankle a break. There are games that he could miss, but the Lakers can't risk not having him at the moment.
As of January 22, the Lakers are still the 13th seed with a 21-25 record. Depending on the outcome of their matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday, LA could either climb the ranks or retain their spot.
Having said that, boosting their record is definitely the team's priority. However, the Lakers need Bron if they want their chances of winning to be higher.
With that in mind, it seems like a rather unfortunate situation for the "King". He'll have to maintain a good balance between resting his ankle and showing up for games. Honestly, the only time James can truly rest is if Anthony Davis returns to the lineup sooner rather than later.