LeBron James is set to miss the Los Angeles Lakers’ game against the New York Knicks because of a left elbow contusion and left foot arthritis.
The announcement came before the Lakers’ game against the Knicks, confirming that James would miss his second straight game.
Elbow Injury Sustained Against Nuggets
James, 41, sustained the elbow injury late in the fourth quarter of L.A.’s 120-113 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Thursday. He fell to the floor after contact from Nikola Jokic while scoring a layup.
“It’s pretty sore right now,” James said after the game. “It felt like one of those funny bone situations, but like, super more intense.”
Consecutive Games Missed
This marks the first time James has missed consecutive games this season since starting off the 2025-26 campaign on the injured list for the first 14 games. His earlier absence was due to sciatica affecting his lower back and down his right leg.
- James is averaging 21.4 points on 50.4%
- He is also averaging 5.6 rebounds
- And 7.0 assists in his record-setting 23rd season.
Team Performance Without James
L.A. has a 12-7 record in games James has missed this season.
Ayton and Kleber Return
Lakers coach JJ Redick told reporters before the Knicks game that Deandre Ayton and Maxi Kleber would be available. Both players had missed Friday’s 128-117 win against the Indiana Pacers, along with James.
Rui Hachimura started in place of James on Sunday.
The Lakers will have to adjust their lineup once again as they face the Knicks without one of their key players.