LeBron James Questionable for Lakers-Hawks as L.A. Faces Historic Struggles
It’s been a rough week for the Los Angeles Lakers, and things aren’t looking much brighter heading into Friday’s matchup against the Atlanta Hawks. The team announced Thursday that LeBron James is listed as questionable due to soreness in his left foot, while Austin Reaves will miss his fourth straight game with a left pelvic contusion. For a team already struggling to find its footing, this news couldn’t come at a worse time.
LeBron, now in his 22nd NBA season, has been a workhorse for the Lakers, playing in all 22 games so far. He’s averaging 22.3 points, 9.0 assists, 7.9 rebounds, and 4.1 turnovers per game. Despite his age, the 39-year-old superstar has shown flashes of brilliance, including breaking out of a shooting slump on Wednesday against the Miami Heat. LeBron went 12-for-18 from the field in that game, but even his strong performance couldn’t save the Lakers from a humiliating 134-93 loss.
Lakers Hit Rock Bottom
Let’s not sugarcoat it: the Lakers are in trouble. Their current four-game road trip has been a disaster, with the team going 1-2 so far. The losses to Miami and the Minnesota Timberwolves were particularly brutal, as the Lakers were outscored by a combined 70 points. That’s not just bad—it’s historically bad. In fact, it’s the worst point differential over any two-game stretch in franchise history. Yes, you read that right: the worst in Lakers history.
After Wednesday’s blowout loss to the Heat, LeBron didn’t mince words. “All of us have to take accountability,” he said. It’s clear that the team’s struggles go beyond just one or two players. The Lakers are a storied franchise with a legacy of excellence, but right now, they’re falling short of even the most modest expectations.
LeBron’s 82-Game Goal in Jeopardy?
At the start of the season, LeBron made it clear that he wanted to play in all 82 games. It’s a lofty goal, especially for a player in his 22nd season, but it’s one that speaks to his legendary work ethic and commitment to the game. However, Lakers head coach JJ Redick hinted that the team might need to reconsider that plan after the loss to Minnesota.
“I don’t know that’s in the best interest of him and us if he does that,” Redick said. “But if he’s feeling well and feeling good, then he should play.” It’s a delicate balancing act for the Lakers. On one hand, they need LeBron on the court to have any chance of turning their season around. On the other hand, they can’t afford to risk his long-term health by overworking him.
Hawks on the Rise
While the Lakers are reeling, the Atlanta Hawks are surging. Atlanta has won five straight games, climbing to No. 6 in the Eastern Conference standings. The Hawks are playing with confidence and cohesion, making them a tough opponent for a Lakers team that’s struggling to find its identity.
Friday’s game in Atlanta will be the final stop on the Lakers’ road trip, and it’s shaping up to be a pivotal moment in their season. Will they rise to the occasion and salvage some dignity, or will their struggles continue? With LeBron’s status up in the air and Reaves sidelined, the odds aren’t exactly in their favor.
Key Takeaways
- LeBron James is questionable for Friday’s game against the Hawks due to left foot soreness.
- Austin Reaves will miss his fourth straight game with a left pelvic contusion.
- The Lakers have been outscored by 70 points in their last two games, the worst two-game point differential in franchise history.
- LeBron is averaging 22.3 points, 9.0 assists, and 7.9 rebounds this season.
- Atlanta has won five straight games and is now No. 6 in the Eastern Conference standings.
As the Lakers prepare to face the Hawks, one thing is clear: this team needs to find answers—and fast. Whether it’s through better defense, improved chemistry, or simply getting healthy, something has to change. Otherwise, this season could go down as one of the most disappointing in Lakers history.
Originally Written by: Dave McMenamin
