Lakers Injury Report: LeBron James Status Revealed For Crucial Game Against Utah

Is the King in?

Heading into their crucial game against the Utah Jazz on Saturday evening, the Los Angeles Lakers will be missing the services of star LeBron James. James entered the day questionable to play with an ankle issue, but he will not suit up against the Jazz.

LeBron James (left ankle peroneal tendinopathy) has been downgraded to out for tonight’s game at Utah, per the Lakers.

— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) January 13, 2024

It always felt like James wouldn't miss the game, especially with the way the Lakers have been playing lately. The team desperately needs wins in any way that they can get them, but his ankle issue needs to be dealt with before it becomes a real problem. 

With James out of the lineup, the Lakers will have to rely on others to step up. If they can get off to a good start against Utah, they will put themselves in a strong position to win the game.

Utah feeds off the energy of the crowd when at home, so Los Angeles will need to make sure that they neutralize them. Star Anthony Davis will need to carry the brunt of the load for the Lakers, and this game just got that much more important. 

Utah sits just a half-game above the Lakers in the Western Conference standings, making this game extremely crucial. While playoff seeding isn't the most important thing right now, games against teams fighting for a berth do have an impact down the line. 

If the Lakers could grab the win over the Jazz, it would mark their second victory over Utah this season. This matters when it comes to any potential tiebreakers regarding the playoffs at the end of the year. 

Having James out of the lineup for this game will make a big difference, and the Lakers blew them out in their first matchup. It was part of the In-Season Tournament pool play, and the Lakers were at home that time around. 

The hope is the Lakers can grab this big win before heading back home for a few games. They have to find a way to get back to the basics, if anything, just to get their season back on track.