The Los Angeles Lakers are proceeding carefully with LeBron James as the forward manages a lingering issue in his left foot, head coach JJ Redick told reporters on Sunday.
James was held out of the Lakers’ 133-122 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans, a decision Redick described as precautionary. “We are going to build him up,” the coach said before tipoff, reiterating that the team does not intend to sideline the four-time MVP for every set of back-to-back games.
Redick added that both the coaching staff and James want the 20-year veteran to resume playing in consecutive-night situations once his foot responds favorably to treatment and increased workload.
James, who turns 41 next month, has appeared in just four of Los Angeles’ first 19 contests. He is averaging 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 8.3 assists—a career low in scoring and rebounding—while the Lakers try to navigate his limited availability.
Los Angeles visits the Phoenix Suns on Monday. James’ status for that matchup has not yet been determined.
Source: Hoops Wire
