Depending on who you ask, the Los Angeles Lakers have the toughest opponents in the first round of the 2025 postseason. The Minnesota Timberwolves are playing outstanding basketball behind Anthony Edwards’ leadership and play.
However, Luka Doncic and LeBron James are keeping the series exciting. The Slovenian has been instrumental for the Purple and Gold’s Game 2 win, and the rest of the roster has done well in evening the series.
LeBron James continues to defy logic with his play at 40 years old. However, the groin injury he sustained in March is seen as a potential reason for the Lakers struggle to win the series in five as Shannon Sharpe would have liked.
With his injury obviously affecting his play, some Lakers fans understandably grew concerned with his availability for their first game at the Target Center. King James officially quelled all rumors about his status with a statement.
LeBron James says he’s ready to play for the Los Angeles Lakers vs. Minnesota in Game 3
James addressed the media before the Lakers’ upcoming game against the Timberwolves and immediately squashed any rumors of him sitting out of Game 3.
“I’m available today,” James told the media, according to The Athletic’s Jovan Buha.
It’s understandable why LeBron would persist to play despite nagging pains in his groin/hip area. He’s the second-best scorer for the Purple and Gold this series, averaging 20.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.5 steals, and 2.0 blocks. He’s a vital part of JJ Redick’s rotation that not having him on the roster would blunt LA by a lot.
LeBron’s uncharacteristically low scoring may seem to be caused by his injury. However, it’s important to remember that he has a young savant as a teammate. Luka Doncic has taken over the star’s responsibility as primary scorer and playmaker, averaging 34.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists in the past two games.
The Lakers will face a hostile crowd in the Twin Cities for Game 3, and every player on the roster must be on their A game to take a 2-1 lead. Lakers fans hope James will step up, have a strong game, and quiet his critics.
For More Content
Reach me on social media @ebbydancel for questions and opportunities. Click here for more content about your favorite NBA, WNBA, and college basketball teams!
