The Los Angeles Lakers’ playoff hopes are hanging by a thread, and it’s not just their performance on the court, fans are increasingly concerned about LeBron James’ health. At 40 years old, James has continued to defy the effects of aging for years, but lately, there’s been a noticeable drop in his play. Even though he managed 17 points and 12 assists in the Lakers’ close 119-117 loss to the Chicago Bulls on March 27, it wasn’t enough to mask the growing concerns about his physical condition
The numbers from the loss to the Chicago Bulls might look decent on paper, but LeBron’s overall performance told a different story. His shooting was off, going just 8-for-20 from the field and 0-for-5 from three-point range. That’s not the efficiency fans are used to seeing from the King. But even more concerning than the poor shooting was his movement on the court. LeBron, known for his explosive drives and quick transitions, looked slower and more labored than usual.
ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins didn’t mince words when discussing LeBron’s health. “LeBron James is not healthy,” Perkins said the following day on “First Take.” “I’m not making excuses, but he is not right.” Perkins even claimed that his sources confirmed that LeBron was dealing with physical issues. Watching LeBron that night, it was hard not to agree with Perkins—he just didn’t seem like himself.
The loss to the Bulls stung, but the bigger issue is what it means for the Lakers’ playoff picture. At 44-29, the Los Angeles Lakers are hanging onto the fourth seed in the West, but with a tough schedule ahead, they’re at serious risk of falling into the play-in tournament. Kendrick Perkins didn’t hold back, saying, “The Lakers are in trouble. That was a game they should’ve won, and now their playoff hopes are on the line.”
With just a 2.5-game cushion separating the Lakers from the seventh seed, their margin for error is razor-thin. The next few games are crucial, especially their upcoming road trip where they’ll face teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Houston Rockets. Perkins also pointed out the difficulty of the Lakers’ remaining schedule—five of their final nine games are on the road, including matchups
With LeBron James clearly not at full strength, the Lakers might have to make a tough call. Perkins suggested that LeBron is probably playing at about 70-75% of his usual self. The Lakers’ priority should be getting him fully healthy for the playoffs, even if it means sitting him out for a few games down the stretch. After a tough loss, the Lakers’ focus shifts to bouncing back as they prepare to face the Memphis Grizzlies next.
For the Lakers to have any chance in the postseason, they’ll need LeBron to return to his dominant form. But with a tight playoff race, it will take more than a quick recovery—LeBron’s health will determine whether the Lakers’ season crashes or survives the storm.
