Lakers list LeBron James, Jaxson Hayes as questionable for season finale against Jazz
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The Los Angeles Lakers have designated LeBron James and Jaxson Hayes as questionable for Sunday’s regular-season finale against the Utah Jazz because of left foot injury management, according to the club’s latest injury report.
Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves remain sidelined, while every other player is available for the 82nd game of the year.
Marcus Smart, who missed nine contests with an ankle injury, returned Friday night in Phoenix and logged 18 minutes under a minutes restriction. Both Smart and head coach JJ Redick indicated they hope that workload can increase versus Utah.
Playoff implications
A victory over the Jazz combined with a Denver Nuggets loss would elevate Los Angeles to the No. 3 seed and set up a first-round matchup with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Any other scenario leaves the Lakers fourth, facing the Houston Rockets. The team already owns home-court advantage in the opening round.
Rest considerations
Los Angeles will not play again until the postseason opens next Saturday or Sunday, giving James and Hayes nearly a week to recover should they sit out. Hayes has missed the last two games with his foot issue.
Redick applauds resilience
Addressing reporters, Redick praised the roster for navigating a season filled with injuries while still surpassing 50 wins.
“I’m extremely proud of our team, our players and our coaches, for dealing with the entire NBA season,” Redick said. “Most people had us as a Play-In team or even worse. I think our group has managed that well.”
The Lakers and Jazz tip off Sunday at Crypto.com Arena.
Source: Lakers Nation
