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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 04: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on against the New Orleans Pelicans during the first quarter at Crypto.com Arena on April 04, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)
For the second night in a row, the Los Angeles Lakers will take the court. This time around, they are going to be without the star forward, LeBron James.
According to an official announcement from the Lakers, James is dealing with a left elbow contusion. Therefore, he has been ruled out for the second leg of the back-to-back.
Marc Stein
The Lakers say LeBron James (elbow) is out tonight against Indiana.
Entering the March 5 matchup against the Denver Nuggets, James was healthy. He got the nod to start and appeared on the court for 33 minutes.
During that time, LeBron went 7-11 from the field, missing both of his threes. The superstar veteran logged 16 points, right assists, five rebounds, three steals, and one block for the Lakers.
Amid his performance, LeBron broke another NBA record. With three field goals, James surpassed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar by making the most shots in NBA history. He is now the league’s leader in baskets and points.
Despite making history, James’ night was ultimately spoiled. The Lakers came up short against the Denver Nuggets with a 120-113 score.
The Lakers Will Look To Bounce Back Against The Pacers
LeBron James, Lakers
GettyLeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers gestures to the ref on the ground during the fourth quarter of the game against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena on March 5, 2026 in Denver, Colorado.
There is a favorable opponent in town on Friday night for the Lakers, but it will be a shorthanded battle for LA.
James suffered what seemed like a minor elbow injury. Still, it wasn’t small enough to keep him off the court for the second-straight game.
The Lakers have played a stretch of games without James this season. Fortunately, they have a favorable winning percentage (61%) when he’s off the court, posting an 11-7 record.
Although the record is promising, the Lakers are still a winning unit when he’s available. This year, they are 26-18 with LeBron in the mix.
The legendary forward is having another All-Star year, posting averages of 21.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 7.0 assists in 44 games.
The Lakers are slated for a 10:30 PM ET tip against the Pacers on Friday.