LeBron James Faces Shocking Multi-Week Knee Setback in Lakers’ Crucial Playoff Showdown—What This Means for the Season

Well, this one stings a bit — the Los Angeles Lakers’ playoff journey could’ve carried on, but not with their ace on the hardwood. LeBron James, the undeniable talisman of the purple and gold, apparently suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee during the latest game, according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. That kind of injury isn’t just a buzzkill; it’s a sideliner that demands about three to five weeks off the court. Had the Lakers pushed into a Game 6 showdown with the Minnesota Timberwolves, James wouldn’t have laced up, snapping his incredible streak of 292 consecutive playoff appearances. For a player whose resilience and durability are nearly as legendary as his game, it’s a tough pill to swallow — and a game changer for his team’s future. LEARN MORE

This story will be updated.The injury is expected to require roughly three-to-five weeks of recovery. Had the Lakers reached Game 6 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, James would have been unable to play, ending a streak of the star playing in 292 straight playoff games.

Had the Los Angeles Lakers extended their season Wednesday night, the team would have continued its postseason run without its best player. Superstar LeBron James reportedly sustained a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee during the contest, according to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.