Lakers Face Tough Challenges as LeBron’s Health Remains Uncertain

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 18, 2025 – The Los Angeles Lakers are navigating challenges as they prepare for their game against the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday night at Crypto.com Arena. The health of LeBron James, who remains questionable due to ongoing ankle and foot discomfort, is at the forefront of the team’s concerns.

James, 40, sidelined from Sunday’s All-Star Game, has been managing the injury throughout the season. Lakers head coach JJ Redick provided updates following Tuesday’s practice session. “It’s something that we’ve managed all year and it was sore over the weekend,” Redick said. “He was able to do most of practice today. But, like it’s been all year, it’s a day-to-day thing.”

Despite the pain, James has delivered strong performances, averaging 24.3 points, 9.0 assists, and 7.7 rebounds over 34.5 minutes per game this season. His shooting percentages are notable, with 51.6% from the field and 39.5% from three-point range. Having participated in 48 of the Lakers’ 52 games prior to the break, his contributions have been vital to the team’s success.

Alongside concerns for James, the Lakers are adjusting to the integration of Luka Doncic, who joined the team from the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Anthony Davis. Doncic’s minutes had been limited due to his return from injury, as he averaged just 23.5 minutes across his first two appearances in Los Angeles. However, thanks to a six-day break, Redick confirmed that Doncic is ready for an increased workload.

<p“His minutes will be up tomorrow,” Redick stated. “I don’t think there is going to be any sort of restrictions going forward.” The Lakers are indicating readiness to incorporate Doncic further into their lineup as they aim for a successful playoff push in the Western Conference.

The Lakers’ upcoming schedule poses significant challenges, beginning with the makeup game against Charlotte that was postponed on Jan. 9 due to wildfires in the area. Following Wednesday’s contest, the team will face the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday and the Denver Nuggets on Saturday, leading into a stretch of eight games over 14 days, which will test their depth and stamina.

<p“Next month is going to be a huge challenge for us,” Redick pointed out, addressing both the quality of opponents and the demanding schedule. Currently, the Lakers hold a 32-20 record, placing them fifth in the competitive Western Conference. They have won 12 of their last 15 games, entering the break with momentum.

Redick emphasized the need for team cohesion during their recent practice, focusing on getting players accustomed to a high level of play. “A lot of it was just getting up and down the court,” he remarked. “Still trying to get the new guys acclimated to different things.”

As the Lakers face critical matchups ahead, maintaining the health of their key players will be instrumental in their quest to solidify their position in the playoffs.