JJ Redick Announces LeBron James Decision on Monday

James missed the first 14 games of the season due to right-side sciatica, a nerve issue affecting his lower back and leg that kept him sidelined throughout training camp and the early portion of the schedule.  Since returning, he has battled additional issues, including left foot joint arthritis and a bruised left elbow, injuries that have forced him to miss several games as the Lakers manage his workload. 

His latest setback occurred over the weekend. James was ruled out of Sunday’s game against the New York Knicks due to a left elbow contusion and arthritis in his left foot, an injury he suffered during the fourth quarter of the Lakers’ loss to the Denver Nuggets earlier in the week. 

Following the Knicks game, Lakers head coach JJ Redick provided an update on the four-time MVP’s status.

According to Spectrum Sportnet’s Mike Trudell, Redick revealed that James did not participate in practice and remains day-to-day as he continues to recover.

“JJ Redick said LeBron didn’t practice today. He remains day-to-day.”

Redick also explained that the Lakers used the practice session to focus on correcting several areas of their play.

“He said the team used practice today to clean up a few things. Pick-and-roll coverages and off-ball screening were two areas of emphasis.”

While James has experienced a handful of injuries this season, durability has long been one of the defining traits of his career. Over two decades in the league, he has consistently been available for his teams while maintaining elite production well into his late 30s and early 40s. The Lakers will certainly hope he can overcome his current setbacks soon.

Los Angeles currently sits fifth in the Western Conference standings and is preparing to return to action Tuesday night at home against the Minnesota Timberwolves. With the postseason approaching, the franchise will be eager to have its veteran leader fully healthy as it pushes toward what it hopes will be a deep playoff run.

For now, however, it remains unclear whether James will be cleared in time to suit up against Minnesota.