Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James sustained a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee during the team’s 103–96 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of the Western Conference first-round series. The injury occurred with 8:39 remaining in the fourth quarter when Timberwolves guard Donte DiVincenzo collided with James while setting a moving screen, resulting in an offensive foul on DiVincenzo.
Despite the injury, James briefly left the game but returned to play the final 7:23, finishing with 22 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. An MRI conducted the following day confirmed the MCL sprain, which typically requires a recovery period of three to five weeks. Had the Lakers advanced, James would likely have missed subsequent games, ending his streak of 292 consecutive playoff appearances.
The Lakers’ early playoff exit marks the first time in franchise history that a third-seeded team has been eliminated in the first round. Despite high expectations following a midseason trade that brought Luka Dončić to Los Angeles, the team struggled with injuries and lacked cohesion. Dončić played through a back injury and illness, while the absence of Anthony Davis, traded to Dallas for Dončić, left the Lakers vulnerable in the paint.
James, 40, had another strong season, averaging 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds over 70 games. He remains under contract with a $52.6 million player option for next season and is expected to return for at least one more year with the Lakers.
As the Lakers look ahead to the offseason, questions loom about roster adjustments and strategies to better integrate their star players. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team addresses these challenges in pursuit of a deeper playoff run next year.
