The Los Angeles Lakers will face the Brooklyn Nets without their star forward LeBron James, who is sidelined due to a strained left groin. This injury was sustained during the fourth quarter of the Lakers' recent 111-101 loss against the Boston Celtics on March 8, 2025. Coach JJ Redick has noted the team is still evaluating the severity of James' condition, leaving fans concerned about his potential absence.
James, who has been instrumental for the Lakers, boasting averages of 26.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 7.4 assists over the past 20 games, missing this game is particularly impactful. The Lakers currently hold a strong 40-22 record, but with multiple players on the injury list, they’ll need to adapt quickly if they aim to secure their playoff positioning.
Alongside James, the Lakers are also without Maxi Kleber (foot), Dorian Finney-Smith (ankle), and Rui Hachimura (knee), which significantly diminishes their frontline options. Center Jaxson Hayes is out due to right knee contusion, and Luka Doncic is questionable with back soreness. The likely starting lineup against the Nets will see Austin Reaves stepping up from his regular role, having averaged 17.6 points per game recently. Redick emphasized the need for his team to adapt, stating, "We have enough firepower with Austin and Luka as shot creators and we’ll do our best to have shooting out there with them".
The Lakers' deep injury list presents both challenges and opportunities for the remaining team members to prove their abilities. This will be particularly important against the Nets, who, struggling with their own 21-42 record, will look to capitalize on the Lakers' weakened state. The Nets have faced their share of injuries as well, including De'Anthony Melton, who is out for the season due to an ACL tear, along with Trendon Watford and Cameron Thomas sidelined due to hamstring issues. Cameron Johnson, leading the Nets with 19.0 points per game, will be pivotal for his team.
The match is scheduled for March 10, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. ET at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. It will be broadcast on SportsNet LA and YES networks. Fans can also stream the game via Fubo, though regional restrictions may apply.
The Lakers' current +111 scoring differential suggests they have performed well offensively, ranking 18th with 112.9 points per game, paired with credits of their eighth-ranked defense allowing only 111.1 points. How they cope without James, particularly against potential lineups from the Nets eager to secure what could be considered a significant upturn victory against higher-ranked opposition, remains to be seen. The Lakers' resiliency will undoubtedly be tested.
So, all eyes are on the supporting cast as they carry the weight of expectations following LeBron James' injury. How will they respond? Will players like Austin Reaves rise to the occasion and lead the charge against the Nets? Fans are hopeful for any signs of offensive brilliance amid the challenges, making this matchup particularly intriguing.