The Los Angeles Lakers’ injury picture came into sharper focus on Monday, and it offered both encouraging news and lingering concerns. According to Thuc Nhi Nguyen of the Los Angeles Times, “Marcus Smart out tonight with a back injury but LeBron James not listed on the injury report for the second phase of this home back-to-back.”
After sitting out Sunday’s win over the Pelicans for left foot injury management, James is expected to return against the Phoenix Suns. The 41-year-old star has now missed 15 games this season, but the Lakers remain careful with his workload — and for good reason. This is James’ 23rd NBA season, coming on the heels of a preseason and opening month lost to sciatica. Even so, Los Angeles has won all four games he’s played since returning.
Head coach JJ Redick has emphasized a cautious and collaborative approach: “We’re gonna have to… manage this as best as we can, given there’s no precedent for it. He knows his body better than anyone.”
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Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton Both Day-to-Day
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Smart, meanwhile, will miss his second straight game. The veteran guard continues to deal with back spasms, an injury the Lakers have no interest in rushing. Smart was initially listed as “doubtful” before being ruled out, and he remains day-to-day.
Deandre Ayton also enters the Suns matchup uncertain after exiting Sunday’s game with a knee issue — the same knee he contused the previous week. Before departing, Ayton delivered one of his best performances of the season: 22 points, 12 boards, and four blocks on near-perfect shooting.
Lakers Stay Steady Amid Injury Management
Despite the rotating injury report, the Lakers head into Monday riding a six-game winning streak and holding a 14–4 record. Their approach has been consistent: prioritize health, manage stars smartly, and collect wins wherever possible. Against Phoenix, that plan will continue — only this time, with LeBron back in uniform.
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