The Los Angeles Lakers are having a successful season from a record standpoint, but there is still a belief that the team could be performing at a higher level. One of the main priorities right now is keeping their stars satisfied, particularly LeBron James, who wants to be on a legitimate championship contender.
“LeBron wants to compete for a championship,” Rich Paul told ESPN. “He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic chance of winning it all. We are very appreciative of the partnership that we've had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers as a critical part of his career.”
On Thursday night, James set the record for the most field goals made in regular-season history. However, the milestone night also came with a scare after he was injured on a play in the fourth quarter.
“Another record-setting night for LeBron James ended painfully, as he hurt his elbow in a hard fall during the fourth quarter of the Los Angeles Lakers' game against the Denver Nuggets. James drove and hit a layup with just over 4 minutes to go, but he came down hard and immediately grasped at his elbow,” Jace Evans wrote for USA Today.
James was ruled out for Friday’s game against the Indiana Pacers. Deandre Ayton and Maxi Kleber were also ruled out. Head coach JJ Redick provided updates before the game.
“JJ Redick says the Lakers believe LeBron James will be available Sunday with his elbow contusion. Kleber got imaging on his back and is day to day. Ayton is also day to day,” Dan Woike of The Athletic wrote.
The Lakers will need to get healthy for the final stretch of the season. Los Angeles is doing everything it can to stay out of the Play-In Tournament, making health and depth critical in the closing weeks.
While James is the focal point during crunch time, Kleber and Ayton provide valuable minutes when available. Fortunately for the Lakers, their injury issues appear to be relatively minor and could be resolved in the coming games.