The Los Angeles Lakers have bounced back with two crucial wins against the Phoenix Suns and San Antonio Spurs following a four-game losing streak. During this stretch, JJ Redick’s squad has felt the absence of its leader, LeBron James, whose impact is sorely missed on both ends of the floor. Adding to the challenge, the team has also been without forward Rui Hachimura due to injury.
In what has been a demanding stretch of the season, injuries have hit the Lakers hard. Hachimura has been sidelined with a knee injury since late February, sustained during a victory against the Timberwolves. Meanwhile, James has been nursing a left groin strain suffered in a loss to the Celtics.
The good news for the Lakers is that both players are nearing a return. However, JJ Redick emphasized before the game against the Spurs that, due to the team’s packed schedule, neither player is likely to have a full practice before stepping back onto the court.
“I’d have to look at the next three weeks, but very unlikely there’s a practice,” Redick explained. “I think there’s a practice in April. That’s the reality of playing every other day. Even if we do something on the court, there’s not going to be live contact in between games. So they’re just gonna have to ease their way back in”.
LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers leaves the game after an injury during the second half against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. (Elsa/Getty Images)
“Some of us have had to do that. I had to do it a few times. It’s ideal to have a practice, but I don’t think that’s realistic right now,” Redick continued. “Like we’ve done all year, we’ll work with Leroy [Sims] and our medical team to make sure those guys are covered and safe”.
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Lakers’ coach JJ Redick believes Luka Doncic’s playing style works even without LeBron on the court
Lakers find momentum despite James’ absence
The Lakers struggled initially in LeBron James’ absence. After his groin injury during the loss to the Celtics, the team dropped three straight games to the Nets, Nuggets, and Bucks, with Luka Doncic unable to carry the load despite strong performances.
However, in their recent games against the Suns and Spurs, Doncic has formed a dynamic partnership with Austin Reaves. Together, the duo has led the Lakers to two straight wins. Reaves put up impressive back-to-back performances, scoring 28 and 30 points, while Doncic delivered 33 and 21 points, recording double-doubles in both contests and narrowly missing triple-doubles.
When will LeBron James return?
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, LeBron James is expected to return for the Lakers’ game against the Orlando Magic, approximately a week after his injury. This timeline means James will miss upcoming matchups against the Nuggets on Wednesday, the Bucks on Thursday, and the Bulls on Saturday.
