LeBron James misses Bay Area matchup with Warriors

Lakers forward LeBron James was absent in Thursday’s loss against the Golden State Warriors due to a recurring ankle injury. Although this injury does not seem to be serious enough to keep him out for a long period, it may be worrisome for someone in his 21st season. 

The 39-year-old has played through his fair share of injuries including last year’s playoff run where he seemed to be nursing another ankle injury against Denver in the Western Conference Playoffs.

There is no evidence that the injury has hindered his play this season. The Lakers forward is averaging 24.8 rebounds, 7.2 rebounds, and 7.8 assists. Those numbers don’t indicate any kind of injury for an NBA player, rather a career year for anyone else.

So, there is the scenario that LeBron is just resting the ankle ahead of a late playoff push but this injury will likely come up again when he plays heavy minutes late in the season.

LeBron, who is currently averaging 34.9 minutes a game has thankfully watched the emergence of Anthony Davis who is in contention for Defensive Player of the Year.

This passing of the torch will be vital to the Laker’s success this season and will be more prevalent when Lebron has to play more high-volume minutes. 

The Lakers are currently 4-4 without Lebron this season and this recent loss to the Warriors makes it a little more glaring that the Lakers need him to make any sort of playoff push.

Father Time seems to be the only real issue with an ankle injury, so the Lakers need to err on the side of caution when it comes to trying to finish above a play-in spot.

There is a reason to be concerned for a franchise that has its sights set on another playoff run because LeBron’s body is not getting any younger and the season is not getting any shorter.

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