Is LeBron James playing tonight against the Brooklyn Nets? | January 30th, 2023

LeBron James has been dealing with a sore left ankle for a while. More often than not, he’s been able to play through it, particularly when it comes to marquee games like tonight's Brooklyn Nets matchup.

However, he’s been ruled out by the LA Lakers from tonight's game to rest that sore left ankle. The game against the Nets is the first leg of a back-to-back set, which is likely why he’s sidelined.

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The last time LeBron James sat out a game due to a sore left ankle was on Jan. 9 in the Lakers’ 122-109 loss to the Denver Nuggets. He played in nine straight games before his unavailability tonight.

“King James” will miss his 11th game this season, which is already a big deal considering he only saw action in 56 matches last year. Without the four-time NBA MVP, the Lakers are only 4-6.

After the controversial loss to the Boston Celtics the other night, LA is still stuck in 13th place with a 23-27 record. Several missed calls by game officials over the last three weeks have cost the Lakers a couple more games. They could have easily been over .500 had the officiating been fair in a few of their matches.

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There’s no rest for the weary, though, as the Lakers try to continue competing for at least a play-in slot. They’re only two games behind the Phoenix Suns for the 10th seed and the final ticket to the pre-playoff matchups.

What is LeBron James’ status for tonight’s game against the Brooklyn Nets?

LeBron James is officially out tonight due to a sore left ankle. The Lakers have been very careful with his load and could be giving him more rest after playing 44 minutes two nights ago in Boston.

More than the amount of time he played, the soon-to-be 19x All-Star's usage was also off the charts. He finished with 41 points, nine rebounds and eight assists.

LeBron James is already 38 years old and in his 20th season in the NBA. Everyone knows he’s got the mileage, which is a big reason why the Lakers are desperately trying to give him rest.

When will LeBron James return?

The four-time MVP could return tomorrow night against the New York Knicks.

If there is nothing more to the ankle than just soreness, the recently-named NBA All-Star team captain should be available tomorrow night. He should be able to suit up for the LA Lakers versus the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.

Darvin Ham has previously admitted that they’re concerned about “King James’” minutes and usage. They don’t want to run him to the ground but are forced to play him to keep up with the other Western Conference teams.

Anthony Davis, as great as he has looked during the last two games, is still not in tip-top shape after sitting out for 5 ½ weeks. The Lakers will need LeBron James to sustain his blistering form to give themselves a chance for a playoff spot.

Unless there’s a big setback, he should be back to lead the Lakers against the New York Knicks on Tuesday.