Positive News for Lakers Fans
LeBron James (left groin strain) and Rui Hachimura (left patellar tendinopathy) are nearing their return, as both Los Angeles Lakers forwards have been upgraded to questionable in the latest NBA official injury report. Their potential comeback is ahead of the Lakers’ matchup against the visiting Chicago Bulls on Saturday, March 22.
James has been sidelined for the past seven games, while Hachimura has missed the last 12. Lakers head coach JJ Redick has categorized their status as day-to-day since their recent road trip.
Following the Lakers’ 118-89 defeat against the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday, March 20, Redick expressed optimism about their return against the Bulls. If they don’t play on Saturday, they could be back during the team’s upcoming four-game road trip, starting in Orlando on Monday, March 24.
Before the Bucks game, James participated in a full-court workout and appeared to be moving well.
The Lakers (43-26) have gone 3-4 since James sustained his injury in Boston on March 8. They are in a tight race with the Denver Nuggets (44-27) for the third seed in the highly competitive Western Conference.
Meanwhile, after sitting out against the Bucks, Luka Dončić (right ankle sprain), Austin Reaves (right ankle sprain), Dorian Finney-Smith (left ankle injury management), and Jarred Vanderbilt (right groin strain) are all likely to play against the Bulls.
Backup guard Gabe Vincent (left knee injury management) has been downgraded to questionable.
The Lakers Struggle Without LeBron
During James’ seven-game absence, the Lakers’ defensive rating has slipped to 17th in the league.
Redick noted that James’ leadership and Hachimura’s presence have been sorely missed on the court.
Bronny Steps Up Against the Bucks
With several key players unavailable, Bronny James took advantage of the opportunity to display his progress from the G League in the Bucks matchup.
Bronny tied for the team lead in scoring with 17 points on 7-of-10 shooting, recorded a career-high five assists, and added three rebounds and a block in 30 minutes off the bench.
“Not surprised by tonight,” Redick commented. “I think his confidence is growing.”
Redick also highlighted what Bronny needs to work on to secure a consistent spot in the Lakers’ rotation.
“The next step is becoming an elite-conditioned athlete. With his physical tools, burst, and handle—plus his potential as an above-average NBA shooter—he has a real chance to make an impact,” Redick said.
With key Lakers players returning soon, Bronny is expected to move back to the end of the bench.
