The Lakers have kept their heads above water in a tight bottom half of the West, going 5-5 since LeBron James went out with a tendon issue in his foot. However, if they are going to be any kind of postseason threat, the Lakers need peak LeBron back.
With rumors swirling he might be out for a while, Lakers coach Darvin Ham gave the most concrete update yet on a LeBron return.
Darvin Ham with an encouraging update on LeBron James’ return timeline: “We anticipate him coming back at some point (this season).”
— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) March 20, 2023
“At some point” is vague, but at least it means the team expects him to return.
LeBron has hinted on social media he is close to a return and will come back recharged.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CpxvrSdupET
In a West without a dominant team, Lakers fans — and players — can dream of a playoff run despite their 34-37 record. They looked good for the five games this team was healthy after the trade deadline, and it’s not inconceivable if the Lakers could get everyone back they could beat any team in the West in a best-of-seven. Whether a team with no margin for error (even when healthy) and health issues could string together three series wins to reach the Finals appears too big an ask, but do you think Denver/Memphis/Sacramento want to see LeBron and Anthony Davis in the first round?