Mixed news for Lakers fans after LeBron/Doncic injury update

The burgeoning on-court relationship between LeBron James and Luka Doncic only lasted a few weeks before injury split the two superstars.

LeBron picked up a left groin injury during a loss to the Boston Celtics on March 8. Doncic was initially able to steady the ship in his absence but he too succumbed to injury, missing Friday’s loss to the Denver Nuggets with a right ankle sprain.

The Lakers find themselves on a four-game skid coming into Sunday’s visit of the Phoenix Suns and they have slipped from No. 2 seed in the West to No. 5. Head coach J. J. Reddick will be eager to get back to winning ways but he’ll have to do it without one of his superstars.

LA Lakers injury update to face Phoenix Suns

First, the good news for Lakers fans. Luka Doncic has been removed from the injury list and will return to the court on Sunday evening. He comes into the game in good form, too, having put up 30+ points in four of his last five games for the Lakers.

He has looked particularly impressive in LeBron’s absence in recent weeks, taking over more of the offensive responsibilities and showcasing his playmaking skills. Doncic will have to do more of the same against the Suns because LeBron James will not back back in contention.

ESPN correspondent Shams Charania reports that LeBron is expected “to miss at least another week. His exact return will be based on how his body responds to increased activity here in the coming days and coming week.”

The Lakers may have slipped to No. 5 in the West but their 40-25 record is still competitive and they will fancy their chances in the playoffs, once the new-look team has had a chance to gel properly. A rest for LeBron now may, in some ways, be beneficial for a team with genuine championship ambitions.

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