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LeBron James and the LA Lakers will miss the 2022 NBA playoffs. Their 121-110 loss against the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night ended their hopes of making the play-in tournament. Although their fate, as it pertains to the postseason, is sealed, they have three more games to close out the regular season.
To say the Lakers' campaign was a disappointment will be an understatement. Fans had high hopes as they entered the season as championship favorites.
Unfortunately, they failed to figure it out on the floor despite the firepower they had. They acquired Russell Westbrook through a blockbuster trade, but the third star did not have the expected impact.
Blame has been going around as this is arguably the worst season in franchise history, considering the caliber of players on the roster. Nonetheless, the Lakers will have more time to rest and strategize for next season.
The Lakers (31-48) will square up against the Golden State Warriors (50-29) on Thursday night. Although a win will make no difference, they will be playing for pride and fans would like to know if their captain will be available.
What is LeBron James' status for tonight's game against the Golden State Warriors?
For Thursday night's game against the Warriors, LeBron is listed as out because of an ankle sprain. He hurt his ankle on March 27 against the New Orleans Pelicans and has since missed four of the Lakers' last five games.
When will LeBron James return?
There is no timeline for James' return. He is averaging 30.3 points per game, just behind Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (30.4 ppg). He could get back on top if he produces at a high level.
He needs to play at least two more games to be eligible for the award. After Wednesday night, Los Angeles will have two games remaining, against the OKC Thunder on Friday and the Denver Nuggets on Sunday.
How does LeBron James' absence impact the LA Lakers?
The Lakers are enduring a seven-game losing streak, and LeBron has been unavailable for five of those games. Although winning has been difficult for the Lakers, even with James on the floor, it almost seems hopeless without him.
"The King" has played in 56 games this season, with 26 ending in victories. While the team has been hard to watch, James has put on a show. The four-time NBA champ has averaged 30.3 points, 8.2 rebounds and 6.2 assists while shooting 52.4%.
Guess the Lakers players!
