LeBron James recently did not play in two Los Angeles Lakers games before returning on Sunday against the Memphis Grizzlies. James, who is dealing with a foot injury, also missed time due to "personal reasons." Stephen A. Smith recently explained why LeBron's absences are a "non-story" while speaking on ESPN First Take.
"This is the biggest non-story. ... God forbid he took time off. ... LeBron James is approaching 40, he's earned it." @stephenasmith on LeBron's time away. pic.twitter.com/hEAkFYXuEa
— First Take (@FirstTake) December 16, 2024
"This is the biggest non-story... God forbid he took time off," Smith said. "He's not Cal Ripken, he took time off... LeBron James is approaching 40, he's earned it."
LeBron is arguably the greatest player of all-time. He is the Lakers leader and LA obviously needs him on the floor to compete. Smith, though, has no problem with LeBron missing games during the regular season. He did make it clear that he was referring to the regular season, as LeBron's presence will obviously be of the utmost importance in a potential postseason game.
Load management has been a topic of discussion in recent seasons. However, the circumstances are different for LeBron. He is in his 22nd NBA season, and he has earned respect all around the league. Perhaps this specific situation wasn't related to load management, but Smith seemingly wouldn't mind regardless of the reason.
LeBron James hoping to stay on the floor after injury return
James, who will turn 40 years old soon, is averaging 22.8 points per game on 49.2 percent field goal and 36.5 percent three-point shooting. The Lakers star is also averaging 9.1 assists and 8.0 rebounds per outing across 24 games played.
LeBron has certainly not had the best season of his career during the 2024-25 campaign. Still, he is producing quality numbers for a player who will be 40 years old in a couple of weeks. The Lakers are certainly hopeful that LeBron can continue to stay on the floor and make an impact. They are a better team with James and Anthony Davis playing together.
The Lakers will look to build off their 116-110 win over the Grizzlies moving forward. LA will carry a 14-12 record into Thursday's game against the Sacramento Kings. Sacramento, meanwhile, is 13-13 so the game should be rather competitive.
It remains to be seen if James will be available on Thursday night. The Lakers will have three days off in between games, which seemingly increases the likelihood that LeBron will play. Still, it will be a situation to monitor.
Stephen A. Smith, however, probably would not have any concerns even if LeBron James decided to rest. It will be intriguing to see how fans react to Smith's comments.