As Los Angeles Lakers fight a valiant battle to grab a playoff spot, their chances are boosted by the return of ace player LeBron James. The four-time MVP is expected to feature for the Lakers in their match against New York Knicks at the Staples Center.
After it was initially reported that James’ recovery could very well drag into the playoffs, the return comes as a surprise to many.
“Much more optimism on the state of LeBron James’ right ankle after on-court work Sunday and Monday, James was pain-free after several days off – and able to make hard cuts and elevate. Return on Tuesday vs. Knicks is likely,” sources tell ESPN.
Lakers star LeBron James (ankle) has had two “really good days of workouts at a high level” and feels “great.” He plans to return Tuesday against Knicks or Wednesday against Rockets. report Yahoo Sports
Sources claim that the player’s ankle has been pain-free after several days off. He was absent in the defending champions’ matches against Denver Nuggets, LA Clippers, Portland Trailblazers, and Phoenix Suns.
Lakers coach Frank Vogel revealed that the player was an active participant in the training drill ahead of the Knicks clash.
“We did some drill work. We did some contrived scrimmages and we did a short, full scrimmage, And he did all of it.”
James reportedly visited an ankle specialist to seek a resolution with the high ankle sprain. The move has apparently paid dividends as he is now able to make sharp movements without any pain.
James’ journey with the notorious high ankle sprain
Lakers were cruising at one stage in the top half of the Western Conference table until twin injuries to LeBron James and Anthony Davis hit them hard.
The defending champions have a record of 28-15 with the presence of the star on the court but their record reads a miserable 10-15 in his absence.
He suffered the injury against Atlanta Hawks and missed the next six weeks on the sidelines as a result. While he returned back to the court, his stint only lasted a couple of matches as the injury was aggravated.
He is currently averaging 25 points, 7.9 rebounds and 7.8 assists per game this season.
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