The Los Angeles Lakers were having a celebratory night. It was Luka Doncic’s first game with the franchise, and they were dominating the Utah Jazz. Number 77 shined as his new franchise ran up the score. It did not take him long to make a statement, but things quickly turned sour when LeBron James left the game after playing just one minute in the fourth quarter.
James was seen grimacing before talking with his trainer and heading back to the locker room. No Laker fan wanted to see it, but LeBron returned to the bench before the end of the game.
Here is everything we know about the injury so far.
LeBron James leaves Lakers win over Jazz with injury
King James was questionable coming into the day with an ankle injury. He did not reinjure that.
LeBron was holding his abdominal area as headed to the back. He took a shot from Walker Kessler, which may have caused the pain. It was a positive sign to see him return to the bench, but he did not get back in the game. It was a blowout. Luka Doncic did not play in the fourth quarter. James was seen smiling and joking on the bench in the fourth quarter. Fans should not worry. It appeared just to be a minor thing that quickly faded.
Luka and LeBron had an evident connection in their first game together. The Lakers have won six straight and just added one of the best players in the world. This could be a special season in Los Angeles. Fans were rightfully worried when James exited the game, but the feelings should shift back to excitement.
Fans will be waiting for updates as they become available. King James may sit as the Lakers have just one more game before the All-Star break. They face the Utah Jazz again on Wednesday night. This time the game is in Salt Lake City. It may be a chance to let the 40-year-old rest as he gears up for the All-Star game and stretch run.
This is a situation to watch closely. Everyone wants to see King James in his 21st All-Star game. It will be a special event for the 40-year-old with the new format. LeBron wants to help his team win the first one, but he must be healthy for the stretch run.
Los Angeles Lakers fans will be waiting for further updates. Please check back for all the latest on LeBron’s injury and plenty more on Luka Doncic and the franchise. It is a fantastic time to be a Lakers fan, so do not miss a moment.