Four-time NBA MVP LeBron James still has questions for the Los Angeles Lakers on the second night of back-to-back games against the San Antonio Spurs. After missing the first five games, James returned last night to help the Lakers beat the Spurs.
“King James” played 33 minutes and showed no signs of the left adductor strain that kept him out of the Lakers’ lineup earlier. He scored 21 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals. Los Angeles has a 16-point lead over San Antonio when the 18-time NBA All-Star is on the floor.
LeBron James told the media after the game that he felt “good.” He was just a little pissed because he committed a game-high nine turnovers. The Lakers superstar blamed the offseason for the turnover and said he wasn’t passing his usual rhythm.
The Lakers will see how he feels after morning shootaround and go from there. However, James told the media that it’s “very likely” he’ll play, even if it’s back-to-back games, since he hasn’t played in two weeks.
Meanwhile, former NBA champion Fred VanVleet has been upgraded to questionable by the Toronto Raptors. The point guard did not play against the Brooklyn Nets last Wednesday due to a non-Covid-related illness.
However, VanVleet was fully involved in the Raptors’ recent practice, leading the team to hope he’ll be back for tonight’s game against the Dallas Mavericks. The Raptors, who have lost two straight, need VanVleet to play to end the losing streak.
“Stable Freddie” averaged 18 points in 12 games for the Raptors, with career highs in assists (6.8) and steals (1.9). Without Pascal Siakam and Scotty Barnes in and out of the lineup, VanVleet has been more aggressive in recent games.
If Fred VanVleet remains sidelined, Malachi Flynn could start again for the Toronto Raptors.
Pascal Siakam: Right adductor strain; injured since Nov. 4, 2022
Pascal Siakam, the 2018-19 NBA Most Improved Player winner, has missed the Toronto Raptors’ final nine games. He has been dealing with a strained right adductor but has responded to treatment. Siakam was reportedly a full practice participant last Friday.
However, the Raptors will continue to be extra cautious with the 2019 NBA champion. He’s already cleared contact in practice and will continue to work on his physicality. Siakam is expected to return next week.
‘Spicy P’ was playing best basketball of his career before injury. He is posting career highs in points (24.8), rebounds (9.3) and assists (7.7).
covered in wounds toronto raptors Surely these stats can be used when they are trying to keep their heads above water.
Scottie Barnes: Left knee sprain; Injured since Nov. 19, 2022
Reigning NBA Rookie of the Year winner Scotty Barnes Dealing with left knee sprain.he was injured in the fight atlanta hawks November 19 last year, which forced him to miss last Wednesday’s meeting with brooklyn nets.
Barnes will now miss his second game as he was ruled out when Toronto hosts Dallas tonight. The absence of the former Florida State standout will create more headaches for coach Nick Nurse. Toronto will be without the services of Pascal Siakam, Precis Achiuwa, Otto Porter Jr. and others.
Scotty Barnes may return when the Toronto Raptors host the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday.
