LeBron James is expected to make his return to the lineup.
On Sunday evening, the Los Angeles Lakers will play the Memphis Grizzlies at home in California.
After missing two games in a row, LeBron James is expected to be available.
Via ESPN’s Dave McMenamin: “JJ Redick says LeBron will “try to give it a go” tonight against Memphis, returning after a two-game absence”
Threads tonight@bibigoUSA x #LakeShow pic.twitter.com/SGnZ3So3Yk
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) December 16, 2024
The four-time NBA Champion enters play with averages of 23.0 points, 8.0 rebounds and 9.1 assists per contest while shooting 49.5% from the field and 35.9% from the three-point range in 23 games.
JJ Redick says LeBron will “try to give it a go” tonight against Memphis, returning after a two-game absence https://t.co/JyrAVea0EI
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) December 16, 2024
After defeating the Portland Trail Blazers (last Sunday), the Lakers are fresh off a 97-87 loss to the Minnesota Timerwolves.
The good thing for the Lakers is that (in addition to getting James back) they are 8-3 in the 11 games they have played on their home floor.
Nov 6, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) reacts after a technical foul as Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) looks on during the first half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images / Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
BREAKING: LeBron James (foot) is likely to return tonight against the Grizzlies
— Lakers Daily (@LakersDailyCom) December 16, 2024
In their last showdown (also at home), James exploded for 35 points, 12 rebounds, 14 assists and one steal while shooting 13/22 from the field and 4/7 from the three-point range in 37 minutes.
The Lakers won by a score of 128-123.
Nov 13, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) stands on the court during the fourth quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images / Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
Right now, the Lakers are in a slump, as they have won just three out of their last ten games.
They enter Sunday’s matchup as the tenth seed in the west with a 13-12 record in 25 games.
Following Memphis, the Lakers will visit the Kings in Sacramento on Thursday.
Going up against the Grizzlies (18-8) right now will be challenging, as they have gone 9-1 over their last ten games (and have won four straight).