Los Angeles Lakers

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (ankle) won't play against the Warriors on Thursday. The multi-time MVP has battled an ankle injury of late, with multiple reports indicating he's received treatment for it. He did log 14 minutes in the All-Star game on Sunday evening. However, the Lakers are looking to make a postseason push, so the team will need James at 100%. Nevertheless, Anthony Davis (Achilles, hip), assuming he plays, is a lock for all fantasy lineups without James on the floor. On the other hand, Rui Hachimura, D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Spencer Dinwiddie should all get more chances on the scoring end.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (ankle) was absent from practice on Wednesday and is expected to join the team in San Francisco for their game against the Warriors on Thursday. The 39-year-old played only 10 minutes in the All-Star game on Sunday and is currently undergoing treatment on his left ankle, which might potentially sideline him for the Lakers' upcoming game. Taurean Prince, Max Christie, and Rui Hachimura are all potential candidates to receive increased playing time if James is unable to play. He maintains averages of 24.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 7.8 assists in 34.9 minutes per game this season.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (ankle) will suit up for Sunday night's All-Star game. However, per James, he'll be limited. The multi-time MVP has battled various ailments throughout the 2023-24 campaign. But he's received treatment over the last few days for his left ankle issue, with more to come moving ahead. The 39-year-old continues to make a difference for fantasy managers this season, averaging 24.8 points, 7.8 assists, 7.2 boards, and 1.3 steals. He's also shot 39.5% from deep, one of the best averages of his career. James was also recently asked about his retirement plans. Yet, he didn't provide a definitive update regarding how many more years he has left. Additionally, the 2003 No. 1 overall pick didn't specify if he'd hang it up as a Laker. At any rate, Los Angeles will have their first game after the All-Star break on Thursday evening in Golden State. Fantasy managers should expect James to have an injury designation, although there's a real chance he won't play.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James was the topic of trade rumblings before the deadline. However, his agent Rich Paul, speaking on the Stephen A. Smith Show, indicated that his client isn't going anywhere. "He's committed to the Lakers," said Paul. "Obviously, there's ups and downs and emotions throughout the course of a season, but ultimately, LeBron's committed to the Lakers." The trade deadline is in the rearview mirror, and the multi-time MVP is still on the roster. There were reports Golden State attempted to acquire him. However, that clearly never happened. James remains a top fantasy producer despite various injuries over the last few years. He's averaging 24.8 points, 7.8 assists, and 7.2 rebounds this season. Even better, he's shooting 39.5% from deep, the second-highest mark of his career. Nevertheless, the 39-year-old could have at least a few more seasons left in the tank, and he's anticipated to remain one of the best players in the National Basketball Association until he decides to eventually hang up his shoes.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (ankle) will be rested on Wednesday versus Utah. The Lakers finish off a back-to-back on Wednesday, and the veteran star will use the night to rest his left ankle, which has bothered him for a while. Despite the injury, James has featured in 13 of the team's 15 games in 2024. James fully plans to play in the All-Star Game on Sunday, and he will then have a nice break until Feb. 22, when the Lakers continue their campaign versus Golden State. Taurean Prince will likely hop back into the starting unit as James' replacement on Wednesday.