NBA

Why is Christian Wood not playing for the LA Lakers tonight against the Nuggets in Game 4?

Things haven’t been going well for the Lakers recently, and they’re still without one of their top stars.

CAROLINE BREHMANEFE

Does it even hurt to look anymore? After three games, the Los Angeles side are 0-3 down in the series against the Denver Nuggets, having lost 114-103, 101-99 and 105-112).

The Crypto.com Arena will be an interesting place to be (to say the least) on Saturday in Game 4 (10:00 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. PT.), and they’ll have to do so without one of their main men who is still not back: Christian Wood.

The 28-year-old from Long Beach has not featured in any of the Lakers’ defeats so far in the series, and fans have been scratching their chins as to when he will return. Let’s take a look.

What injury does Christian Wood have? When will he return?

When the original injury report from the LA Lakers was submitted to the NBA ahead of the game, Wood was listed as ‘questionable’ with ‘left knee; surgery’ the written reason.

He has been a huge loss for the Lakers, and any participation could certainly offer more offensive power after his side have been putting up recent low averages in terms of scoring.

Wood last played on February 14 after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his knee. The big man, however, could be back soon enough for Game 4 on Saturday, giving that much-needed boost from the reserves.

Will LeBron James play against the Nuggets in Game 3?

In a few words: nobody knows for sure. LeBron is listed as ‘probable’ after suffering an ankle injury in game 2, but he’s likely to play a part.

LeBron James (23) drives to the net in the second quarter against the Denver Nuggets.Ron ChenoyUSA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con

Of course, it goes without saying that LeBron’s inclusion in the side, even in a bit-part role, would not only constitute a immeasurable boost in morale, but confidence. As for his impact on the scoreboard, that would be entirely measurable, and potentially vital.

The game between the Nuggets and the Lakers will be played on Saturday April 27 with tip-off at 10:00 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. PT. You can follow all the drama on AS USA as it unfolds in Los Angeles.

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