The Los Angeles Lakers finally reclaimed the 8th seed in the Western Conference after tonight’s 123-120 win against the Memphis Grizzlies. LeBron James went all out to get the Lakers the much-needed win. He clocked in 41 minutes and finished with 37 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists. But that kind of effort might have taken a toll on the 39-year-old’s body. The Lakers will face the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday for their final regular season game, and LeBron revealed if he will play in that crucial matchup.

LeBron has been in and out of the Lakers lineup all season due to a lingering ankle injury. He most recently missed Sunday’s game against the Timberwolves due to a flu-like illness. But despite the injury concerns and the gruelling schedule, LeBron is prepared to play against the Pelicans on Sunday. When a reporter asked about tonight’s 41-minute outing affecting LeBron’s availability against the Pelicans, the 4-time Champion responded, “I’ll be ready for Sunday.”

James understands the importance of winning Sunday’s game. The Lakers will hold onto the 8th seed at least till Sunday because Sacramento and Golden State lost their respective games tonight. With a 46-35 record, LeBron James and Co. have a slight edge over both teams. So, the Lakers must win on Sunday to stay ahead of Sacramento and Golden State and finish the season as the 8th seed. That would require LeBron to be available, as the Pelicans are an elite team and will pose tough competition for the Lakers. Their superstar, Brandon Ingram, is also expected to return from injury on Sunday. So, the Lakers need all hands on deck to keep their playoff dreams alive.

Lakers depth chart

The latest update on LeBron’s availability for Sunday suggests that the Lakers might use the same lineup against New Orleans they did tonight. Their depth chart could look something like this:

This starting lineup did wonders for the Lakers the last time they faced the Pelicans in February. The Lakers’ starters put up a dominant all-around performance, with every starter scoring 20+ points. LeBron James and Co. won that game 139-122. The Lakers are 2-1 against the Pelicans this season. And with the addition of Spencer Dinwiddie and the return of Gabe Vincent, they can pose an even bigger threat for Zion Williamson and Co. A win on Sunday will take the Lakers’ record to 47-35. And it will give them two chances to qualify for the playoffs through the play-in tournament.