The Lakers are on an eight-game winning streak. Meanwhile, the Celtics are riding three-game winning streaks, both are battling for postseason positioning, and both know what’s at stake when they step onto the court at TD Garden on March 8. But let’s be real—the biggest question on everyone’s mind is LeBron James.

Is he playing? Can he push through his lingering foot injury? And if he does, will he be at full strength?

The answer to those questions could decide this game. Fortunately, the Lakers’ latest injury report gives us some much-needed clarity—not just on LeBron, but also on Luka Doncic, Jaxson Hayes, and a few key Celtics players who could make a difference in this battle.

Lakers and Celtics Injury Report

Alright, let’s get straight to it. The good news for Lakers fans? LeBron is officially listed as probable. If you’ve followed him over the years, you already know what that means—he’s suiting up unless something completely unexpected happens. The guy just doesn’t miss games like this.

Luka Doncic is also probable with a right knee contusion, meaning the Lakers should have both of their superstars available, which is huge.

Now, on the downside, Jaxson Hayes is questionable with a similar knee issue. And as for Rui Hachimura and Maxi Kleber? They’re already ruled out. That’s a hit to the Lakers’ depth, but let’s be honest—this game is going to be won by the stars.

And speaking of stars, the Celtics have their own injury concerns. Sam Hauser (right ankle sprain) and Jrue Holiday (right hand mallet finger) are both questionable. Holiday’s status is especially important because if he doesn’t play, that’s one less elite defender to throw at LeBron. Meanwhile, JD Davison and Miles Norris are unavailable due to their G League assignments, but their absences won’t change much in Boston’s rotation.

So, both teams have some question marks, but the main thing? LeBron is expected to play. Luka is expected to play. That’s all that matters.

LeBron James’ Dominance Against the Celtics

If there’s one team that knows how dangerous LeBron can be, it’s the Boston Celtics.

He’s been a nightmare matchup for them for nearly two decades, and his numbers against them? Absolutely ridiculous. 28.7 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.1 assists per game in 60 regular-season meetings. But those numbers don’t even tell the whole story.

And the most recent matchup? The Lakers demolished the Celtics 117-96 back on January 23. LeBron played a key role in that win, putting up 20 points, 14 rebounds, and 6 assists. Sure, AD led the way with 24 points, but make no mistake—LeBron’s leadership and playmaking were the foundation of that victory.

Boston knows what he’s capable of, and they’re going to throw everything they have at him. But that’s the thing about LeBron—he lives for these kinds of moments.

This isn’t just another regular-season game. This one actually matters.

The Lakers (40-21) are trying to solidify their standing in the Western Conference, while the Celtics (45-18) are battling for the No. 1 seed in the East. Both teams are heating up at the right time, and honestly? This could be an NBA Finals preview.

For the Lakers, everything hinges on their defense. Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, and Kristaps Porzingis have been an offensive force for Boston all season, and if LA wants to replicate their January win, they’ll have to control the tempo, get key stops, and let LeBron and Luka take over.

But here’s the catch—TD Garden isn’t going to make it easy. Boston fans haven’t forgotten that last loss, and they’ll be out for revenge. This isn’t just another regular-season matchup; it’s a serious test of whether the Lakers have what it takes to compete for a championship.

And at this stage, every game is another chapter in LeBron James’ legendary career. He’s 40 years old, still dominating, and still proving that when the pressure’s on, there’s no one better to lead a team.

And when the opponent is Boston? Forget about it. That just adds fuel to the fire.

With his injury status no longer a question, the Lakers are going to lean on him to deliver. And if history has taught us anything, it’s that when LeBron faces the Celtics in a big game—he delivers.

Buckle up—this one’s going to be special.