Is LeBron James playing tonight against the New Orleans Pelicans? | February 4, 2023 | 2022-23 NBA Season

The Los Angeles Lakers will face the New Orleans Pelicans in a game that could be crucial to their chances of qualifying for the Play-in tournament.

LeBron James' pursuit of the NBA's all-time scoring record continues. James is only 63 points away from passing Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who has led the scoring list for many years. After scoring 26 points in the Lakers' win over the Pacers on Thursday, LeBron emphasized the significance of Abdul-Jabbar's outstanding achievement.

He stated that it is one of the greatest records in sports, on par with the home run record in baseball, and a record that is unlikely to be broken. It is unclear whether James will be playing against the Pelicans tonight as he is listed as questionable on the Lakers' official injury report due to left ankle soreness. He missed Monday's game against the Nets, but this was part of a back-to-back set, and the Lakers had Friday off and won't play again until Tuesday.

Hence, there is a chance that LeBron ends up playing against the New Orleans Pelicans.

LeBron James and LA Lakers need one good trade to emerge as Championship contenders

Through 42 games this season, James has been performing exceptionally well, averaging 30.1 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 7.1 assists per game while shooting 50.6 percent from the field. LeBron along with Anthony Davis are the main ball handlers of the team, and Russell Westbrook is not a player who excels off the ball.

As a result, Westbrook is now a candidate for the sixth man of the year award rather than being part of a big 3 that can help the Lakers compete for a championship. Bradley Beal is one player they have recently been linked to. With Westbrook having previously played for the Wizards, the trade makes sense, but it will have to be accompanied by Lakers assets.

Beal can excel off the ball, can take up defensive and offensive load off the LA Lakers’ current two All-Stars, and might be a much better fit than Russell Westbrook. Of course, the Lakers have been in contact with a number of other teams and it will be interesting to see what kind of deals the front office settles on, until the trade deadline hits.