Is LeBron James playing tonight against the LA Clippers?

The four-time MVP was previously placed under the NBA’s health and safety protocols after returning two positive COVID-19 tests. Under the mandate, the 36-year-old was supposed to sit out for at least 10 days or provide two negative tests to play again.

While being quarantined, the four-time NBA champion informed teammate Anthony Davis that he felt fine and was asymptomatic. The LA Lakers apparently wanted to be very sure regarding the status of their superstar, so a battery of tests was done.

After the comprehensive test, it was determined that the result before the game against the Sacramento Kings was a false positive. Thus, he is cleared to play for tonight’s encounter against fellow Staples Center tenant, the LA Clippers.

The NBA has already made an official statement regarding Jame’s status after the false-positive test and the follow-up negative results.

What is LeBron James’ status tonight against the LA Clippers?

Although the NBA has already cleared LeBron James to play, the LA Lakers have officially tagged him as probable. Despite the said status on the league’s injury report card for the game against the LA Clippers, the 17x All-Star is expected to play tonight.

The LA Lakers badly need the King’s presence back on the court. In the Lakers’ win against the Sacramento Kings, the team came out flat without James. They trailed the Kings by 11 at halftime and saw the lead go as high as 14 before the Lakers mounted a huge comeback behind Russell Westbrook.

The LA Clippers are currently mired in a three-game losing slump and should be raring to get back into the winner’s circle. LeBron James’ anticipated return could spoil that plan.

About the author

Michael Macasero brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his coverage of basketball at Sportskeeda with over 18 years of diverse work experience. This includes stints at Convergys, Interpace and RunRepeat.

Michael's background in English and Journalism has provided him with the analytical skills and precision necessary for creating content, and he is a lifelong fan of the Boston Celtics. His favorite players include legends like Larry Bird and Michael Jordan, modern stars like Tim Duncan, and Nikola Jokic, as well as emerging talent like Victor Wembanyama.

Michael respects Gregg Popovich, despite his contentious demeanor in interviews, and recognizes Popovich's genius in adapting his coaching style to maximize the talent on his roster over the years. Michael eagerly anticipates seeing how Popovich will structure the offense around emerging talent like Victor Wembanyama.

Understanding the story and details is crucial to Michael's reporting philosophy and he believes overlooking details, particularly when pressed for time, can lead to misunderstandings and inaccurate conclusions.

Aside from work, Michael's children are his hobbies, and he also likes to go running, swimming and weightlifting.

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Is LeBron James playing tonight against the LA Clippers? | 2021-22 NBA season

What is LeBron James’ status tonight against the LA Clippers?