Lakers Announce LeBron James Update on Wednesday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Jan 7, 2026 2:56 PM ET

LeBron James has continued to operate as one of the Los Angeles Lakers’ most impactful players, now in his eighth season with the franchise. As James’ career enters its final stages, the 41-year-old veteran superstar has nothing left to prove, even in Los Angeles.

Over 23 seasons in the NBA, James has collected 21 All-Star selections, 21 All-NBA honors, four NBA championships and four league MVP awards, ensuring his place as a unanimous Hall of Fame selection when first eligible.

In his prime, James was defined by a rare combination of size, speed and skill that allowed him to dominate every facet of the game. His ability to elevate teammates while carrying the offensive load cemented his reputation as the face of the NBA for nearly two decades.

Even now, James remains effective because of his basketball IQ, adaptability and efficiency. While he no longer relies on athleticism, his court vision and decision-making continue to dictate the Lakers’ offense.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23)© Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

The Lakers are heading into Wednesday’s back-to-back matchup against the San Antonio Spurs looking to extend their winning streak to four games. Yet the status of James for the contest remains uncertain.

After Tuesday’s win against the New Orleans Pelicans, James was asked whether he would play in the second leg of the back-to-back, a decision he has carefully managed throughout the season to balance his workload.

The NBA’s all-time leading scorer responded, "Every back to back for the rest of the season is TBD. I am 41, I got the most minutes in NBA history … bank it right now (h/t Dave McMenamin of ESPN)."

On Wednesday, Los Angeles announced its official injury report, listing James as questionable with left foot joint arthritis and right sciatica.

LeBron James is questionable tonight in San Antonio, per the Lakers pic.twitter.com/RjXlJ7rd16
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) January 7, 2026

Both injuries have appeared earlier this season and are likely tied to load management. James remains an essential piece toward the Lakers’ playoff ambitions.

While superstar Luka Doncic has shouldered much of the offensive load, James has continued to operate efficiently off the ball and as a secondary playmaker, especially in the absence of shooting guard Austin Reaves.

Through 18 appearances, James has averaged 21.7 points, 5.4 rebounds and 6.8 assists while shooting 51.2% from the field and 32.2% from beyond the arc.

Ultimately, the Lakers’ hopes of making a deep postseason run hinge on James’ ability to stay healthy and deliver bursts of brilliance when it matters most.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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