The Los Angeles Lakers came into this season with gaudy expectations fresh off acquiring LeBron James in free agency, but their season fell well short of where they were hoping to be this time of year.
The Lakers have been eliminated from playoff contention with a current record of 34-42 and as a result, they will shut down LeBron James for the remainder of the season. According to a press release and a statement from team President Magic Johnson and GM Rob Pelinka, James won’t play in another game this season in hopes of his groin fully healing.
“After consulting with our team doctors and medical staff, we have decided to hold LeBron out of games for the remainder of the season. This decision will allow his groin to fully heal, and is best for the future success of both LeBron and the Lakers.”
James will travel with the team on the upcoming road trip to New Orleans and Oklahoma City.
Obviously with the playoffs out of reach, this was the smart move by both Johnson and Pelinka to sit LeBron James for the Lakers’ final few games though it can be argued that it should’ve came even sooner. The 34-year-old has already battled various ailments throughout this season and was sidelined for more games in this his 16th year than any previous campaign.
A monumental disappointment for the Lakers and their expansive fanbase, all James and the front office can do is hope to come back next season better and with noticeably more talent. This will be a vital free agency period for their franchise’s future, and making sure James is ready to roll for next season as his age continues to climb is integral to their success.
James will finish the season with his typically stellar per-game numbers of 27.4 points to go with 8.5 rebounds and 8.3 assists.
