Nov 10, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts against the Toronto Raptors during the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images

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LeBron James Out for Second Straight Game with Foot Soreness

LeBron James will be absent again as the Lakers face the Timberwolves due to left foot soreness.

The Los Angeles Lakers star, LeBron James, has been ruled out for Friday’s game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

James, who will turn 40 later this month, did not travel with the team to Minnesota. He also missed last Sunday’s victory over the Portland Trail Blazers due to foot soreness.

Head coach JJ Redick mentioned that James is “taking some time” away from practice, coinciding with the team’s extra rest days after failing to advance to the NBA Cup quarterfinals. If James returns for Sunday’s matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies, it will mark an eight-day break between games.

LeBron James (left foot soreness) is questionable for Sunday’s game against Portland. Despite the injury, he has yet to miss a game this season. pic.twitter.com/H1kzT1nPU6
— Triple Sports News (@TripleSportsNew) December 8, 2024

Redick also confirmed James’ absence is for “personal reasons,” though further details have not been disclosed.

Before Sunday’s game against the Trail Blazers, JJ Redick noted that some time off “could be really good for him.” for LeBron James this week. After the game, he urged all Lakers players to take full advantage of the early-season break.

“Heck, if somebody wants to go spend a couple of nights in Santa Barbara and relax, that’s fine, too, it’s a quarter way through the season.” : Redick said, per ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.

James has been averaging 23 points, 9.1 assists, and 8 rebounds this season, continuing to be a dominant force in the league. However, signs of fatigue have emerged, including a 10-point performance in the Dec. 2 loss to the Timberwolves, nearly ending his streak of 1,242 consecutive games scoring in double digits.

Also Read: Bronny James Drops Career-Best 30 Points in South Bay Lakers Victory

LeBron James Talks About Retirement

LeBron James recently shared new insights on his future retirement from basketball.

Speaking with reporters on Wednesday, Nov. 13, after the Lakers’ 128-123 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies, the NBA superstar — who turns 40 in December — reflected on his plans for life after basketball.

“I’m not going to play that much longer, to be completely honest. One year, two years, whatever the case may be. I said the other night that I’m not playing until the wheels fall off. I’m not. I’m not going to be the guy disrespecting the game because I just want to be out on the floor.”: James said

James delivered a stellar performance in Wednesday’s win over Memphis, scoring 35 points, along with 14 assists and 12 rebounds, securing the Lakers’ victory.

BREAKING: LeBron James announces his retirement from the NBA.

(Via @ESPNNBA) pic.twitter.com/9P3rCcNRWu
— NBACentel (@TheNBACentel) December 13, 2024

The Lakers (13-11) entered the NBA Cup break after a rough stretch, losing seven of their last 10 games, including a 134-93 blowout against the Heat on Dec. 4. Given the NBA’s rules, opportunities for James to take a step back and rest make sense for both him and the team.

While his current absence may simply be a chance to recharge, it has fueled speculation about a potential trade. As a four-time NBA MVP and champion, James holds significant leverage with a no-trade clause, allowing him full control over any potential move away from Los Angeles.

Image Credit: Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images

LeBron James

Los Angeles Lakers

NBA 2024-25

Anamika Shrivastava

nhl

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