LeBron James Nears Full Fitness as Lakers Close in on Playoff Spot
LeBron James has spent much of the past few months watching from the sidelines due to a groin strain that limited his playing time in the NBA. However, since returning, he has helped the Los Angeles Lakers get close to securing a spot in the 2025 playoffs.
The Lakers have won six of their last 11 games, and with just two matches left this season, one more win will guarantee their place — avoiding the play-in tournament for the first time since 2020.
LeBron’s Form Since Injury
Before the injury, LeBron was averaging 25.0 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game. After returning, those numbers dipped to 22.4 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 6.5 assists.
Still, the 39-year-old believes he is regaining his rhythm. After a recent match against the Golden State Warriors, he said:
“That was the best I’ve felt physically since the injury. My jump shot felt good, I got to the free-throw line comfortably, and hopefully I can keep building on that.”
Fit for the Rockets Game
LeBron is now listed as “probable” for the Lakers’ clash with the Houston Rockets on Friday, 11 April 2025 at the Crypto.com Arena. This means the medical team is satisfied with his progress and he’s likely to play unless there’s a last-minute issue.
The Lakers’ injury list is short, with only Maxi Kleber (recovering from right foot surgery) joining LeBron as a concern. This is a good sign for the team’s momentum.
In their last outing, LeBron scored 27 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, and gave 3 assists in 36 minutes against the Dallas Mavericks.
The Lakers currently hold a 49-31 record, while the Rockets sit second in the Western Conference at 52-28.
