Lakers Injury Update: Will Lebron James Play Tonight vs the 76ers?

The Los Angeles Lakers are still relying on their superstar LeBron James for most of their wins. The veteran forward is on an outstanding season even at the age of 38. Despite this, the Lakers are currently ranked 7th in the Western Conference with a 10-7 record. They are set to face the Philadelphia 76ers tonight at the Wells Fargo Center. Bron & Co are coming off a strong 121-115 win against the Cleveland Cavaliers, where Anthony Davis emerged as the leading scorer. However, the most dynamic 76ers offense duo Embiid-Maxey, could give a hard time to LA tonight without LeBron and AD. 

LeBron James is dealing with a calf injury 

At the time of writing, LeBron is listed as questionable in the latest injury report shared by Derek Bodner. Although it’s a minor injury, the Lakers want to be cautious with their star player for the deep long-run playoffs. It would be a game-time decision based on the examination of medical staff and head coach David Ham. 

Apart from LeBron, the Lakers will possibly be without Cam Reddish, who is also listed as questionable. Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Gabe Vincent are all out tonight due to injury. Although LeBron is averaging  25.5 points, 8 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game and has a great season, Philly poses a significant challenge for the Lakers. AD, who is a key piece in the Lakers roster, is listed as probable. 

The 76ers will be without Kelly Oubre, who is battling a fractured rib due to a hit-and-run incident on 11 November.  

The Lakers need a strong defense against Philly 

The threat for the Lakers is the reigning MVP, Joel Embiid, who is leading the team as the third-best offense in the league right now. He is averaging a double-double per game, 32.1 points, and 11.3 rebounds. Tyrese Maxey is having his best season so far and he is head-to-head with Embiid in terms of scoring. On average, he is putting up 26.4 points per game.

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The Lakers need to stop this scoring firepower defensively. If Bron and AD are both out of the game, it might just be a one-sided spectacle. It’s likely that they will come on the court if not for a max play. 

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