The Los Angeles Lakers will be without star forward LeBron James tonight as the Lakers play against the New Orleans Pelicans in the first night of back-to-back home games, according to ESPN.
James, 40, already missed the first 14 games of the Lakers’ season while dealing with sciatica, and is now dealing with a left foot injury that will keep him on the sidelines at least for tonight, though it is currently unclear whether or not his absence is due to load management or the injury itself.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementLeBron James 2025-26 stats
Though he has appeared in just four games thus far, James has performed well when he has played, averaging 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds per game and 8.3 assists per game while shooting 49.1 percent from the field.
He was crucial in the Lakers’ 135-118 win over their cross-town rivals, the Clippers on Nov. 25, when he dropped 25 points.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James looks for the play against the Utah Jazz during the second half at Delta Center on Nov. 23, 2025.Will James play tomorrow vs. Phoenix?
It is currently unclear whether or not James will play in the second game of Los Angeles’ back-to-back contests. James’ presence would give the Lakers a massive boost against the 12-9 Suns.
As of now though, it appears likely that James will suit up for Monday night’s contest. But that has yet to be confirmed.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementEven without James, the Lakers have set themselves up well for success in the crowded Western Conference. They currently sit at 14-4, good for second place in the Western Conference.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: LeBron James injury update: Lakers star dealing with foot issue
AdvertisementAdvertisement