Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) grabs his leg after a collision with an Atlanta Hawks player in the second quarter at Staples Center. Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

Lakers star LeBron James expected to miss several weeks with high ankle sprain

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 3/22/21

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James suffered a high ankle sprain in the team's 99-94 loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday and will miss some time.

According to The Athletic's Shams Charania, James is expected to miss several weeks after colliding with Solomon Hill.

Developing – LeBron James is initially expected to miss several weeks due to his high right ankle sprain, sources tell @ShamsCharania.

: https://t.co/kJdYXQh00e pic.twitter.com/XSE9G3eEbQ
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) March 22, 2021

Hill was called for a foul when he landed on James' ankle while trying to steal the ball.

The four-time NBA champion shared his frustration about the injury in a Twitter post on Saturday, saying he hates not being available for his teammates.

Nothing angers and saddens me more than not being available to and for my teammates! I’m hurt inside and out right now. ‍♂️. The road back from recovery begins now. Back soon like I never left. #ThekidfromAKRON
— LeBron James (@KingJames) March 21, 2021

James' injury is unfortunate for the Lakers, which also are without Anthony Davis, who is recovering from Achilles tendinosis.

Both injuries put pressure on the Lakers to acquire at least one player by the NBA's Thursday trade deadline. L.A. has been linked to Andre Drummond and is reportedly seeking guard help.

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