"We anticipate him coming back at some point"- Lakers head coach Darvin Ham provides a major injury update on LeBron James ahead of crucial matchup
LeBron James has been out of action since February 28 due to a stubborn right foot injury. Despite James being able to put up 26 points two nights prior, he was sidelined, and his injury suddenly forced him to sit out a huge chunk of the LA Lakers' remaining games. While the Lakers showed a lot of promise by climbing back into the ranks without LBJ, it appears they might need the "King" again soon.
The LA Lakers are currently on a two-game losing streak, facing two close defeats against the Houston Rockets (114-110) and Dallas Mavericks (111-110). These losses downgraded their record to 34-37, sending the team to the back of the line in 11th place. LA fans are now biting their nails and need LeBron James back on the court soon. Darvin Ham gave ESPN an update on his return:
“We anticipate him coming back at some point (this season).”
Darvin Ham on LeBron:
“We anticipate him coming back at some point (this season).”
(via @mcten) https://t.co/lOh5O16hYk
Will the return of LeBron James turn the LA Lakers' season around?
The LA Lakers only have 11 games remaining this season. Their upcoming matchup tonight against the Orlando Magic will set the tone for whether or not the Lakers still have what it takes to secure a postseason spot. Losing tonight's game will definitely hurt the team and could possibly say goodbye to the NBA playoffs.
However, LA fans are hopeful that a returning LeBron James could turn things around. While there could be some facts supporting these sentiments, James coming back to the court might be a little too late to make a difference. The Lakers need to win 80% of their remaining games if they want to participate in the offseason. With no definite date yet, we could see LeBron in the final 5 games of the year.
Having said that, the Lakers need to get the job done without their leader. Despite Anthony Davis' monster performances as of late, some of them didn't matter since the team couldn't secure the win. At this point, everyone on the roster needs to step up and play like it's their last game if they wish to keep their playoff hopes alive.