LeBron’s Return Uncertain as Lakers Struggle; Embiid Sidelined with Fractured Face
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick has admitted uncertainty about when LeBron James will return, as the superstar missed his second consecutive game. James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and a four-time champion, sat out Sunday’s win over the Portland Trail Blazers due to a sore foot and has since been absent from practice for “personal reasons,” according to Redick.
Ahead of Friday night’s 97-87 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center, Redick confirmed he had no timeline for James’ return, stating, “No,” when asked if he had any updates. The defeat marked the Lakers’ eighth loss in their last 11 games, further amplifying concerns about the team’s form without their 39-year-old talisman.
The Timberwolves, meanwhile, continued their strong run of form, securing their fifth victory in six games. Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with 23 points, while Julius Randle contributed 21. For the Lakers, Anthony Davis stood out with a double-double, scoring 23 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. The Lakers will now look to rebound when they host the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday.
In another setback for the league, Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid suffered a sinus fracture during a 121-107 home loss to the Indiana Pacers. The reigning MVP was struck accidentally near his cheekbone in the second quarter by Bennedict Mathurin, who was leaping for a rebound. Embiid, who recently returned after a knee injury and a suspension, received treatment on the court but did not return. The injury raises questions about his availability as the 76ers navigate a challenging start to their season.
