The Los Angeles Lakers are set to clash with their city rivals, the LA Clippers. This matchup will take place on Sunday evening and will be the first time they will meet this season. It also marks the Lakers’ first visit to the Intuit Dome in Inglewood. This change occurred because the teams no longer shared the Crypto.com Arena. Off to a fresh start, LeBron James has fans curious about his status for the game.
With just a half-game difference in the Western Conference standings, his game carries significant weight for both teams. The Clippers come into this matchup riding a three-game winning streak, while the Lakers have secured victories in their last two games. In terms of injuries, both teams have notable players missing or uncertain for the game. LeBron James is managing a left foot injury but is expected to play, which is listed as probable.
LEBRON JAMES IS NOT HUMAN OMGGG pic.twitter.com/AjpNr38tJe
— BronMuse (@BronMuse) January 18, 2025
LeBron’s presence on the court is crucial for the Lakers. The Lakers are riding a two-game winning streak, with their latest 102-101 victory coming against the Brooklyn Nets. In this game, star Anthony Davis sat out due to plantar fasciitis.
Though the Lakers almost squandered an eight-point lead with just 3:45 left, they managed to secure the win thanks to Austin Reaves. He scored a career-high 38 points, including 15 in the crucial final quarter. LeBron James contributed 29 points to the effort. He was also shooting an impressive 70.6%, along with seven rebounds and eight assists.
LeBron James Still Unstoppable At 40
While most of the players’ stats start to decline when they head to conclude their careers, LeBron is just the opposite. At 40 years old, James is still tearing it up on the basketball court, proving that Father Time hasn’t quite caught up with him. Since his birthday just a few weeks ago, he’s averaged an astounding 24.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 8.1 assists.
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LeBron since turning 40…timeless 🐐 pic.twitter.com/SXBFr9VU0Q
— 🎭 (@MaskedInLA) January 18, 2025
Additionally, he’s shooting 59% from the field and an impressive 55% from three-point range. While many have predicted his decline year after year, he continues to deliver performances that defy those expectations. Now in his 22nd season, LeBron is averaging 23.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game.
Despite occasional signs of fatigue, he remains one of the most impactful players in the league and reads the game better than anyone else. Every time he’s counted out, he comes back to remind us just how incredible he really is. And another key quality is how he manages his health to keep injury woes at bay.