LeBron James is back and better than ever! WATCH TO SEE how rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama leads the San Antonio Spurs against the Chicago Bulls this Saturday. James has missed the last two weeks with a left groin strain. He suffered the injury late in the fourth quarter of the Lakers’ 111-101 home loss to the Boston Celtics on March 8. His absence was particularly pronounced as the team went just 3-4 in the seven games without him.
CSM James has been the Lakers’ most important player this season. With that much seasoning, he’s now scoring 25 points while shooting 51.7% from the field and a blistering 38.4% beyond the three-point line. He’s averaging 8.5 assists and 8.2 rebounds per game. Without a doubt, his return will provide the team’s collective psyche with a huge boost. They’re intent on finding the team that was one of the league’s best before he went down.
The Lakers are now enjoying one of their healthiest rosters of the season, a fact that coincides with James' return. Maxi Kleber is still recovering from a broken right foot and is out again for the game against the Bulls. Further complicating matters, two-way player Trey Jemison III is on the inactive list. Rui Hachimura, who’s missed the last 12 games with tendinopathy in his left knee, will be available. He will play under a minutes restriction set between 20 to 24 minutes as he eases back into the lineup.
As Lakers’ coach JJ Redick would say, we’re bullish on getting James back on the court. He noted that the offense has not had many opportunities to play together with their entire roster under supervision.
"We just haven't had a lot of time with our full team available," said Lakers coach JJ Redick.
With only 13 games left in the regular season, the Lakers are chomping at the bit to establish some continuity and chemistry. They’re counting on James’ leadership and intensity to unlock their potential. Hopefully, his leadership will replace an intangible element that will be missed from last year’s team. With his immense experience, they’ll solidify their starting position and make a deep push toward the playoffs.
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