The Los Angeles Lakers grappled with a tough matchup while hosting the Sacramento Kings. The purple and gold started the game with their winning momentum from the OKC victory. However, the Kings swiftly took control behind De’Aaron Fox, unleashing a 44-point second quarter. However, the Lakers, behind LeBron James’ 31 and Rui Hachimura’s 27-point contribution mounted a comeback effort late in the third. Regardless, the Kings, with efficient efforts from all over the rotation, never let the Lakers sniff around evening the score.
Moreover, as the game neared its end, an alarming sight unfolded. LeBron James was seen limping and making his way to the locker room. The Lakers were in the middle of their valiant effort to narrow the margin upon James’ exit, trailing by 14 with 3:56 left on the clock.
LeBron James headed to the locker room after walking off the court with/ a limp.#Lakers #LALakers #Lakeshowpic.twitter.com/rgZ1VrREzR
— Whamshki (@whamshki) March 7, 2024
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As James stepped towards the LA locker room, it was unclear whether he has sustained an injury or if it was one of his early check outs from a ‘pre-decided’ game. However, head coach Darvin Ham quickly chimed in with a scare, claiming that James was experiencing some discomfort and is currently undergoing “an evaluation process.”
Darvin Ham said LeBron James is going through “an evaluation process” and there will be an update later.
— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) March 7, 2024
With that, any updates on James’ health can come once LeBron undergoes a proper evaluation. In the current season, James has rolled his ankle and continued to play coming games, all white showing signs of struggles on the court. Moreover, underwent a procedure on his ankle near the All-Star break and had been listed on the Lakers’ injury report for the majority of the season.
NBA world unites as LeBron James pulls off an injury scare
The NBA world was concerned as soon as clips of James’ early exit began surfacing on social media. Moreover, with Ham’s update, fans began voicing their concerns for the King.
Right away, @BBallInKY wished for James to come out of the night in proper health, with no issues lingering on to the next game.
Hope LeBron doesn't have any lingering issues after leaving the game tonight. #lakers #lakeshow #lakernation
— BBallInKY (@BBallInKY) March 7, 2024
Furthermore, as @omribp points out James’ disappointing injury, the fan could not help but make note of Anthony Davis’ lackluster performance against Sabonis. This marks Davis’ 9th consecutive loss in their head-to-head matchups, marking a 0-9 career record.
AD got demolished by Sabonis as usual. oh and also LeBron got injured. ggs
— Omri BP (@omribp) March 7, 2024
Additionally, @MisandrySports pointed out how James’ injury can expose and leave the Lakers vulnerable, unable to hold their own.
If Lebron is really hurt, we're cooked. The next few games man… idk
— Candice✨#2024 Lakers in 5 🏆✨ 🌚 (@MisandrySports) March 7, 2024
With that, @whamshki expresses a similar sentiment, hoping for James’ return with their fingers crossed.
LA can’t afford to have LeBron James out to injury.#Lakers #LALakers #Lakeshow https://t.co/KFC6HLP5gj pic.twitter.com/1cYULHoumA
— Whamshki (@whamshki) March 7, 2024
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Additionally, while @CL830_Lakers wished James the best in terms of health, the fan particularly hoped for his clearance during the coming home games against the 76ers and the Atlanta Hawks.
All I need now is for LeBron not to be injured and plays for March 18th and March 22nd. For some reason I feel I'm asking too much at this point. 😢
— Purple Gold Forever 👑 (@CL830_Lakers) March 7, 2024
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While James is not an MVP-caliber player, his on-court presence remains primary for the Lakers. With that, even minor sidelining can potentially diminish their hopes of making the playoffs this season.
Read More – Billionaire LeBron James’ Loyalty to Lakers Could Garner Another $164 Million in Earnings