LeBron James gives update on knee injury while recovery keeps him sidelined
LeBron James is making progress with his injured left knee, though the Lakers superstar admits he’s struggling with the forced downtime during his recovery.
“It’s been a hell of a lot better. It’s getting better though… It’s getting better,” James shared during the latest episode of the “Mind the Game” podcast with Steve Nash.
The 39-year-old suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee during the fourth quarter of the Lakers’ season-ending Game 5 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves earlier this month.
For someone with James’ energy, the recovery process has been particularly challenging.
“That’s the most challenging thing. Even though I can’t do much as far as like lower body stuff, I’m still like in the weight room, still getting in upper body,” he explained.
He’s found some small ways to stay active despite the limitations.
“The one thing I am able to do a little bit is ride like a stationary bike just to kind of keep the blood flowing and things of that nature, keep the flexibility as much as possible in the knee.”
But that’s not nearly enough for someone with his usual activity level.
“I’m not a guy that likes to sit around. I have a lot of energy, and I hate sitting around. So this has definitely been [rough] almost two weeks after the season. … They always tell you to take time off, and I’m just not that guy. I’m going crazy right now, for sure.”
Future with Lakers remains uncertain
The big question hanging over James is whether he’ll return for a 23rd NBA season and an eighth with the Lakers.
He has until June 29 to decide on his $52.6 million player option for next season.
James turns 41 this December, a milestone that naturally raises questions about how much longer he wants to play.
The Lakers have struggled in recent years, advancing past the first round just once in five seasons since winning the 2020 championship in the Florida bubble.
With recurring injuries becoming a concern and his age advancing, retirement speculation continues to follow the 21-time All-Star, who averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists this season.
Meanwhile, the Lakers have added superstar Luka Doncic to the roster, who becomes eligible for a massive extension this summer. Doncic can sign a four-year, $229 million contract starting August 2.
Whether James wants to continue his career alongside the young star or hang up his sneakers remains one of the biggest questions of the NBA offseason.
