The Los Angeles Lakers’ season concluded with a Game 5 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday night, a game in which LeBron James sustained an apparent leg injury. Subsequent reports have revealed that James suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain.
According to Dave McMenamin of ESPN, James was diagnosed with a Grade 2 MCL sprain. “Story filed to ESPN.com: LeBron James suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee from his collision with Donte DiVincenzo in Wednesday’s Game 5, a league source told ESPN. The injury entails a 3-5 week recovery timeline,” McMenamin reported. The recovery period for this type of injury is estimated to be three to five weeks, suggesting that the Lakers’ star should be able to recover by mid-June.
Los Angeles Lakers: LeBron James MCL Sprain
Despite the injury, James played 40 minutes in Game 5, demonstrating his resilience. He finished the game with 22 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. Throughout the 2024-25 season, the four-time MVP maintained a high level of play, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game, with a 51.3% field-goal percentage and 37.6% from three-point range.
With their season now complete, the Lakers’ front office will turn its attention to the offseason and consider potential roster moves. The acquisition of Luka Doncic has provided the Lakers with a strong foundation for the future, even if James chooses to play another season.
In addition to building around James and Doncic, the Lakers are expected to address other needs. The team previously attempted to trade Dalton Knecht to the Charlotte Hornets for center Mark Williams, though the deal ultimately fell through. Improving the center position remains a potential priority for the Lakers this offseason.