Lakers star LeBron James’ injury update after missing All-Star Game
LeBron James was a member of Shaquille O’Neal’s Team OG, which, despite the absence of the four-time NBA MVP, managed to defeat Candace Parker’s Rising Stars team 42-35 before going on to beat Charles Barkley’s Global Stars in the final, 41-25.
Now that the 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend has concluded, the focus shifts back to the crucial games for the Lakers and the rest of the league. James’ status, however, remains uncertain as the Lakers prepare for their upcoming matchup against the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
Entering the All-Star break with a 32-20 record, the Lakers sit in the fifth spot in the Western Conference standings. James seems to to prioritize staying healthy over risking potential injury in the NBA All-Star Game.
“With 30 games left and us aiming for the playoffs in the tough Western Conference, I felt it was crucial to take care of my body and be aware of what’s ahead,” James stated, according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.
Lakers’ schedule after the 2025 NBA All-Star break Related Los Angeles Lakers News Article continues below Fans react to LeBron James’ last-minute All-Star Game decision Given the quality of their next opponent (the Hornets currently have only 13 wins against 39 losses), it’s plausible James could sit out that game as well. Following Charlotte, the Lakers will play back-to-back road games against the Portland Trail Blazers and the Denver Nuggets on Thursday and Saturday before hosting a much-anticipated game against Luka Doncic’s former team, the Dallas Mavericks, on Feb. 25.
Although it may be hard to believe that James is already 40 years old due to his sustained high level of play, there’s a growing need for him to focus on maintaining his physical condition, especially with the significant role he plays in the Lakers’ playoff ambitions.
This season, James, now in his 22nd NBA year, is averaging 24.3 points, 9.0 assists, and 7.7 rebounds per game, shooting 51.6 percent from the field, and posting a 57.8 effective field goal percentage.
