LeBron sidelined; Lakers win without veteran leader
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LOS ANGELES — LeBron James missed his third consecutive game Tuesday with a right hip contusion and lingering left foot arthritis, the Lakers announced two hours before they hosted the Minnesota Timberwolves. Coach JJ Redick said James completed pregame shooting but remains day-to-day after a fall in Denver. The Lakers defeated Minnesota 120-106, with Luka Doncic recording 31 points, 11 assists and 11 rebounds and Austin Reaves scoring 31 including 29 in the second half. Los Angeles improved to 40-25 and swept the season series. Statements, coach quotes and game statistics confirm these developments. Based on 6 articles reviewed and research.
More context
Timeline
- 1. Last Thursday: LeBron took a hard fall in Denver, suffering a right hip contusion and left elbow contusion.
- 2. Following the fall: LeBron continued managing chronic left foot arthritis and underwent pregame shooting but remained day-to-day.
- 3. Two hours before tipoff (Tuesday): Lakers announced James would miss the Timberwolves game.
- 4. Tuesday night: Lakers beat Minnesota 120-106; Luka Doncic posted a 31-point triple-double and Austin Reaves scored 31.
- 5. After the game: Lakers improved to 40-25, completed a season sweep of Minnesota and held the tiebreaker in the Western Conference.
Why it matters
LeBron's absence might worry fans, but the Lakers' win shows depth. Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves stepped up, proving the team can perform under pressure. If you're a fan, it's a good time to check out these rising stars.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
