Latest on LeBron James

LeBron James missed his second straight game Sunday as the Los Angeles Lakers cruised past the New York Knicks at Crypto.com Arena.

James was ruled out about an hour before tipoff with a bruised left elbow and lingering left foot arthritis.

The Lakers have not yet indicated whether James will return Tuesday when they host the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The elbow injury occurred during Thursday’s loss to the Denver Nuggets, when James fell hard after contact with Nikola Jokic while attempting a layup late in the game.

Afterward, James described the pain in familiar terms.

“It felt like one of those funny bone situations,” he said, via Khobi Price of the California Post. “But like, super more intense.”

The Lakers had hoped James might be available against New York but ultimately chose to hold him out. It marked the first time the 41-year-old has missed consecutive games since making his season debut in mid-November after sitting out the first 14 games with sciatica.

James has been listed multiple times this season with foot arthritis, particularly on back-to-back situations.

Despite his absence Sunday, Los Angeles handled business. Rui Hachimura moved into the starting lineup in James’ place.

James is averaging 21.4 points, seven assists and 5.6 rebounds in 44 games this season. The Lakers are in the middle of a five-game homestand.