Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James. Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images

LeBron James gives blunt response to dealing with nagging injuries

By Kevin McCormick | Last updated Apr 25, 2025 3:30 PM ET

Coming off a 94-85 victory in Game 2, LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers have evened their series with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Ahead of a pivotal Game 3 showdown, the 21-time All-Star shut down any notion of past injuries slowing him down.

At this point in the year, all players are dealing with some ailment. LeBron is no different, as he entered the postseason dealing with hip and groin injuries.

Back in March, LeBron missed a week and a half due to a groin injury. He was able to return for the final stretch of the regular season.

While speaking with the media after Friday's shootaround, LeBron was asked about the injuries that had him sidelined before the postseason. The Lakers' star gave a blunt response, implying they aren't an issue and that he'll be in action.

“I’m available today,” LeBron told reporters.

LeBron James on his groin/hip injuries he was dealing with entering the playoffs: “I’m available today.”
— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) April 25, 2025

LeBron is not on the injury report for Game 3, confirming he'll be suiting up for the Lakers. They'll be relying heavily on the star forward as the series shifts to Minnesota.

Allowing Luka Doncic to lead the charge, LeBron has taken a backseat in the Lakers' offense. He's put together a pair of all-around performances, although not to the degree we're accustomed to seeing. In Game 1, he notched 19 points, five rebounds, three assists and two steals. LeBron followed that up by posting 21 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists in their Game 2 win.

LeBron's previous injuries might not be an issue now, but it is still something to watch as the postseason drags on. Having played for over two decades now, his body has a lot of mileage on it. Because of that, nagging injuries could flare up at any moment.

In the meantime, LeBron will attempt to provide a lift for the Lakers as they try to steal a game or two on the road. Game 3 in Minnesota is Friday at 9:30 p.m. ET.

Kevin McCormick

Kevin McCormick is a basketball writer for Yardbarker with years of experience in the journalism field. Based out of Philadelphia, he graduated from Holy Family University with a degree in Sports Management in 2019. Since then, Kevin has gone on to build a career in sports writing

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