.jpg)
1 hour ago
4
Los Angeles Lakers superstar forward LeBron James will be available on Friday in their 81st contest of the season vs the Phoenix Suns.
NBA reporter Jovan Buha shared the news via X.
Lakers’ updated injury report vs. PHX tonight:
— LeBron James and Marcus Smart are available.
— Luke Kennard is questionable. pic.twitter.com/4NAjrcGZi6
Lakers Managing Rotation on Back-to-Back
James will play in his 59th game of the season and on the second night of a back-to-back for L.A.
The 41-year-old superstar is coming off an incredible showing against the Golden State Warriors on Thursday. In the contest, James recorded a game-high 26 points on 11-of-17 shooting from the field, 11 assists, eight rebounds and two steals in 32 minutes of action.
Not only will James suit up, but so will guard Marcus Smart. Smart will make his return to the court after missing the Lakers' last eight games with a right ankle contusion. The last time we saw Smart on the court was on March 21 in their thrilling win over the Orlando Magic.
A few days ago, Lakers head coach JJ Redick shared that Smart was trending upwards in his recovery process. Earlier in the week, there was an indication that he'd be available for Friday's contest, and that will now be the case.
Lakers guard Luke Kennard lands on the injury report. He is listed as questionable due to left finger injury management.
There is a chance the Lakers will rest him on the second night of a back-to-back. If that is the case, guards Nick Smith and Bronny James could be pressed into larger roles.
The Lakers will look for their 52nd victory of the season and enter the playoffs on the right foot. Los Angeles is currently the No. 4 seed in the loaded Western Conference, tied with the No. 5 seed Houston Rockets.
English (US)