Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James was sidelined with a non-COVID illness in Wednesday’s 112-109 victory against the Miami Heat.
Lakers coach Darvin Ham said LeBron James has “the common cold” and is staying home for tonight’s game vs the Heat
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) January 5, 2023
Update for tonight from the Lakers:
LeBron James (non-COVID illness) and Lonnie Walker IV (left knee soreness) have been downgraded to OUT for tonight’s game vs. Miami.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) January 4, 2023
The 38-year-old NBA legend is averaging 29.0 points, 8.2 rebounds and 6.6 assists over 29 games with the Lakers this season. James has scored 40-plus points in each of his last two games, including 47 points against the Hawks on Dec. 30.
James is 484 points away from passing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for No. 1 on the NBA’s all-time scoring list.
Dennis Schröder led the Lakers with a season-high 32 points as Los Angeles overcame James’ absence.
The Lakers (17-21) are currently 12th in the West standings.