The Los Angeles Lakers' 2025 postseason run concluded with a 103-96 defeat to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of the Western Conference First Round. Despite a valiant effort to extend the series, the Lakers were unable to overcome the Timberwolves' dominance, leading to their early elimination from the playoffs.
Throughout the series, LeBron James faced challenges, particularly in Game 5, where he struggled to find his rhythm and was limited to 22 points, while going 9-for-21 from the field and 1-for-5 from beyond the arc. It was soon reported after the game that James sustained a left knee injury during the fourth quarter, which was later diagnosed as a Grade 2 MCL sprain (via ESPN's Dave McMenamin).
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23)
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23)
© Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
In the weeks following the Lakers' exit, a video surfaced online showing James dancing energetically at a social event. The viral footage, which has garnered over four million views on social media platforms, led to public skepticism regarding the severity of his injury.
Social media users were quick to express doubts about James' injury claims.
"Mannn he lied smh," another fan added.
"Bro looks so injured," a fan wrote sarcastically.
"His 'knee injury' looks fine to me," another fan echoed.
"MCL seems fine to do TikTok dances, but to compete at the highest level of basketball in the world?" another fan mentioned.
"But dude said he couldn’t walk down the Met Gala carpet lololol," a fan remarked.
Despite the backlash, medical experts note that recovery from a Grade 2 MCL sprain typically spans four to six weeks. Given that nearly a month has passed since James sustained the injury, his participation in light physical activities, such as dancing, may align with the expected healing timeline.