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Four-time NBA MVP LeBron James is probable for the LA Lakers when they take on the Dallas Mavericks tonight in Texas. James has played in the last two games after missing the previous three due to a sore left foot.
The 19x NBA All-Star played just 26 minutes in last Thursday’s resounding 124-111 win over the Stephen Curry-less Golden State Warriors. James wasn’t asked to do much as Malik Beasley and the rest of the support crew had a great night.
The LA Lakers’ vastly-retooled lineup has allowed “King James” to take on a little less load than what he’s been doing for most of the season. Over his last two games, he’s averaging 25.0 points, 7.6 rebounds and 6.0 assists. His field goal percentage has also gone down, as he is now hitting 48.4% of his shots, including 31.0% from deep.
LA, though, has been impressive in back-to-back games. The four-time NBA champ and Anthony Davis combined for just 25 points, but the Lakers still handily beat the Warriors.
James has asserted that he has a better and more balanced team than what he originally started with. But it remains to be seen if the roster turnover can help them earn at least a play-in spot.
Unless there’s a setback to his left foot, the four-time NBA champ should be available tonight.
Meanwhile, Giannis Antetokounmpo has been ruled doubtful by the Milwaukee Bucks. He is reportedly dealing with a right quad contusion, which he acquired in the Bucks’ 129-99 blowout victory over the Miami Heat last Friday.
The two-time NBA MVP appeared to have collided with Heat guard Victor Oladipo, which forced him out of the game. Antetokounmpo played just six minutes and finished with four points, four rebounds and four assists.
Milwaukee previously declared him day-to-day but has downgraded his status as doubtful for tonight’s matchup against the Phoenix Suns. Bobby Portis could take on the starting power forward role if Antetokounmpo misses another game.
The Bucks could be missing their best player when they host the Phoenix Suns.
Kevin Durant: Right knee MCL sprain; Injured since January 8, 2023
Kevin Durant hasn’t played a game in nearly two months. His last time on an NBA court was against the Miami Heat on Jan. 8 when he was still with the Brooklyn Nets.
The Phoenix Suns have ruled him out for tonight’s matchup versus the Milwaukee Bucks. He could debut for the Suns on Mar. 1 against the Charlotte Hornets.
The two-time NBA Finals MVP could be under minutes restriction once he returns to play basketball. Torrey Craig or Josh Okogie could return to the bench once KD is available.
D’Angelo Russell: Right ankle sprain; Injured since February 23, 2023
D’Angelo Russell stepped on Donte DiVincenzo’s foot in a game between the LA Lakers and the Golden State Warriors last Thursday. He, unfortunately, sprained his right ankle and left the game after having played just nine minutes.
The Lakers have ruled him doubtful when they visit the Dallas Mavericks tonight. Dennis Schroder is expected to play the starting point guard role if Russell is sidelined.
