Is LeBron James playing tonight against the New Orleans Pelicans? | February 15th, 2023 | 2022-23 NBA Season

LeBron James hasn’t played a game since becoming the NBA’s all-time leading scorer on Feb. 7 against the OKC Thunder. He played 34 minutes and scored 38 points to go with seven rebounds, three assists and three steals in that game.

Since then, James has been unavailable due to a sore left ankle. He has been playing for nearly two months while dealing with the same nagging issue. On most nights, he’s been able to help the LA Lakers but not in the last three games.

The LA Lakers have designated him questionable for their game against the New Orleans Pelicans tonight. His status doesn’t really mean much at this point as he’s almost always been a game-time decision.

James looked fine in pre-game warmups against the Portland Trail Blazers last Monday but sat out the game. When he’s available, though, he’s been largely unstoppable.

Over his last 15 games, the soon-to-be 19-time NBA All-Star has averaged 32.5 points, 8.9 rebounds and 7.8 assists. He has made 50.4% of his shots, including 33.9% from behind the arc.

LeBron James has averaged 37.3 minutes per game over his last 15 games. LA’s front office was reportedly frustrated that Darvin Ham allowed him to play that many minutes considering his age and workload.

With the all-time scoring crown in the bag, resting his sore left ankle may have been the best thing for the Lakers. They need a fully healthy James as they push for at least a play-in spot.

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What is LeBron James’ status tonight against the New Orleans Pelicans?

"King James" reportedly wants to play against the New Orleans Pelicans tonight.

As mentioned earlier, LeBron James has been listed as questionable for the LA Lakers’ third meeting against the New Orleans Pelicans tonight. Reports suggest that after missing the last three games, “King James” is determined to play tonight.

LA’s medical staff will monitor him during the morning shoot-around and pre-game warmups. Yet again, regardless of his official status, he will likely be a game-time decision.

James has played 44 of the Lakers’ 58 games so far.

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When will LeBron James return?

The LA Lakers could choose to keep James off the floor until the All-Star game in Salt Lake City.

LeBron James has missed four consecutive games due to a sore left ankle. His longest stretch of unavailability was in November due to a groin injury.

If he does not suit up tonight against the Pelicans, it will be the most consecutive games he’s missed due to the persistent ankle problem.

The LA Lakers may exercise extreme caution and shut down LeBron James, only allowing him to return to action during the All-Star game.

If that is the case, he could wear the purple and gold uniform again only on Feb. 23 versus the Golden State Warriors.