Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

LeBron James Sends Personal Message After Missing 21 NBA Games

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Manhaz Muntaha | Last updated Mar 14, 2026 7:28 PM ET

In his record 23rd NBA season, LeBron James remains competitive, averaging 21.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, 7.0 assists, and 1.1 steals while shooting 50.5% from the field in 45 games.

But the operative phrase is "when healthy." His body has been the story throughout the season at 41. Missing the opening night against the Golden State Warriors due to sciatica on his right side was unexpected, as it happened for the first time in his basketball career.

Then came foot arthritis, a hip contusion, and an elbow injury. By the numbers, the Lakers are 14-7 without him this season, with an overall record of 41-25.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23)Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

He has now missed 21 games. Because he surpassed the 17-game limit, he is no longer eligible for major NBA awards this season. In the middle of this stretch, he recently posted a very personal message on his Instagram story.

Over a selfie video taken in the passenger seat, the Lakers King wrote, "F do you know about my passion/pain/struggle!"

However, the good news is that he's back. After missing three games with hip and foot issues, the 41-year-old returned Thursday to help the Lakers beat the Bulls 142–130. He finished with 18 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists.

For Saturday's home game against the Denver Nuggets, King Jjames is off the injury report entirely and expected to play. It is a crucial matchup as the Lakers are only half a game ahead of the Nuggets in the West standings, so the result will directly impact playoff seeding.

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

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