The Los Angeles Lakers’ eight-game winning streak came to an abrupt halt Saturday night in a 111-101 loss to the Boston Celtics. But the bigger concern? In the fourth quarter, LeBron James exited the game with 6:44 remaining after suffering a left groin strain. That was a nightmare scenario for Lakers fans, who all held their breath as the 40-year-old superstar walked off the court, reminiscent of his Christmas Day injury in 2018.
LeBron, however, downplayed the issue, assuring everyone there was “not much concern” and that he would take things “day by day.” But let’s be real—when a player who’s been defying Father Time for two decades suddenly limps off the floor, it’s hard not to panic.
So, what exactly happened? What’s next for the Lakers? And should fans start a candlelight vigil outside Crypto.com Arena? Let’s dive in.
LeBron’s Injury: A 2018 Sequel?
The injury happened when LeBron spun around Jaylen Brown to finish in the lane. It didn’t seem dangerous in the moment, but when he landed, something was clearly wrong.
“Maybe I stretched it a little bit too much,” LeBron said after the game.
Memories of Christmas 2018 quickly flooded back — that was when he sustained a torn groin that caused him to miss 17 games, effectively derailing what had been an encouraging Lakers season. Choice on comparing the two injuries, James said, “No, that’s not as bad as that. Not as bad as that.” But just to be safe, he tapped on the wooden locker at his back. A little superstition never hurt, did it?
What’s the expected recovery time? Until LeBron undergoes medical imaging, there’s no official timeline. But early sources indicate he could be out for weeks rather than days, which is far from ideal as the Lakers enter a brutal stretch of games.
Lakers Struggle Without LeBron, Celtics Close Strong
When LeBron exited, the Lakers were only down by nine points. The game had been a rollercoaster, with L.A. trailing by as many as 22 points before clawing their way back.
Despite Luka Doncic’s heroics—he scored 14 of his 34 points in the fourth quarter—the Lakers couldn’t quite finish the job. Jayson Tatum, who casually dropped 40 points, ensured Boston stayed ahead.
LeBron finished with 22 points, 14 rebounds, and 9 assists, narrowly missing a triple-double. Unfortunately, he also went 0-for-6 from three, which, let’s be honest, is a number that probably gave Lakers fans heartburn.
Lakers’ Next Challenge: Surviving Without LeBron
LeBron has been the heart and soul of this team, averaging 25.1 points, 8.5 assists, and 8.1 rebounds this season. But the Lakers have a gauntlet ahead: six games in eight days, including two matchups each against the Denver Nuggets and Milwaukee Bucks. Yikes.
“We just have to continue to play hard and play defense,” head coach JJ Redick said postgame. Simple advice, but easier said than done.
With LeBron sidelined, it’s time for the Lakers’ supporting cast to step up:
- Anthony Davis needs to dominate. No more passive games—he has to be the No. 1 option.
- Austin Reaves & Luka Doncic have to provide consistent scoring.
- Bench production will be crucial—players like D’Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura must contribute.
Even with the loss, the Lakers are still 18-4 in their past 22 games, sitting at No. 3 in the Western Conference, just half a game behind the Nuggets. If they can stay afloat while LeBron recovers, they’ll remain in the hunt for a deep playoff run.
LeBron’s Mentality: “We’ll Be Fine”
Despite the setback, LeBron remains optimistic. “We can compete versus anyone in this league,” he said. “We just need to build our chemistry and get healthy.”
He’s not wrong. The Celtics have been together for years, while the Lakers made a major acquisition late in the season. If LeBron, AD, and company can stay healthy down the stretch, they might just be peaking at the right time.
One thing’s for sure: if LeBron says he’ll be fine, Lakers fans can breathe a little easier.
FAQs
LeBron sustained a left groin strain late in the fourth quarter and did not return to the game.
The Lakers haven’t provided an official timeline yet, but early reports suggest he could be out for a few weeks.
Despite a late push by Luka Doncic, the Lakers couldn’t complete the comeback and lost 111-101.
L.A. has a tough six-game stretch ahead, with matchups against the Nuggets, Bucks, and Nets.
They’ve been playing great defense lately, ranked No. 1 in efficiency since Jan. 30, so they’ll need to lean on that while waiting for LeBron’s return.
Conclusion: A Setback, Not a Season-Ender
LeBron’s injury is a gut punch, not a knockout blow. It’s still inside the reach of the Lakers, who maintain their own fate, and if AD, Reaves, and the bro’s trotted out can play, they can ride this until their King is back.
So, Lakers fans, exhale all those deep breaths. LeBron isn’t done yet. If history has taught us one thing, it’s that when doubted, he always𞓜–ALWAYS𞓜–comes back stronger.
The question is, of course — will the Lakers last that long? Strap in, as the path to the playoffs now becomes a lot rockier!
