Lakers Star LeBron James Provides Crucial Update On Knee Injury

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ashish Mathur | Last updated May 20, 2025 12:46 PM ET

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee in Game 5 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Had the Lakers won Game 5, James would have missed Game 6.

A future Hall of Famer, James is 40 years old. He's the oldest active player in the NBA. The four-time MVP and four-time Finals MVP is dealing with an MCL injury for the first time in his life, so he's being cautious with his recovery.

On the latest episode of "Mind the Game " with Steve Nash, James provided a crucial update on his left knee injury after Nash asked him how he's feeling.

"Did you see me limp in here? Like I said last episode, it's been a helluva lot better, but it's getting better, though," James said. "Last time we spoke, I was, you know, but it's getting better."

James will not require surgery for his knee injury. The four-time champion has never undergone surgery on his body.

Arguably the greatest player in NBA history, James appeared in 70 games for the Lakers during the 2024-25 regular season. He averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists, 1.0 steals and 0.6 blocks.

During the Lakers-Timberwolves series, James averaged 25.4 points, 9.0 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 2.0 steals and 1.8 blocks.

A 21-time All-Star, James has a player option to return to the Lakers next season. The NBA legend can become an unrestricted free agent this summer by declining his 2025-26 player option.

James signed with the Lakers in the summer of 2018. He helped the franchise win the 2020 championship against the Miami Heat at the Walt Disney World bubble.

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

More must-reads: