LeBron James to be a game-time decision against the Clippers

The Lakers’ “clean” injury report coming out of the All-Star break didn’t even last a full day.

The team downgraded LeBron James to questionable for Friday night’s home game against the Clippers because of left knee soreness, less than 24 hours after coach JJ Redick told reporters the expectation was for everyone to be available.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James gestures after scoring during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Dallas Mavericks, Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) AP

The Lakers submitted an empty injury report on Thursday night for the first time all season.

Luka Doncic and Deandre Ayton, who were sidelined going into the break because of a strained left hamstring and right knee soreness, respectively, were cleared for Friday’s game.

Star guard Austin Reaves is also off his playing time restriction after being held to 21-29 minutes in the five games he played in after returning from a 19-game absence because of a strained left calf.