The oldest player in the league has played in every game his Lakers have had up till now. But that will not be the case anymore. LeBron James was a game-time decision for Sunday’s matchup against the Trail Blazers because of left foot soreness. He started the day as probable, only to be downgraded to doubtful just 90 minutes before the game. An hour later, the 39-year-old was officially ruled out!

Coach JJ Redick, however, has revealed his plans for the 4x MVP, who seems to be going pretty strong barring a recent niggle. “He has an opportunity to get four days rest before we practice again, so it could be good for him,” said the 40-year-old coach.

LeBron James believes injuries are the only thing holding Lakers behind

With key players like Austin Reaves, Jaxson Hayes, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Christian Wood all sidelined, the Lakers are running low on depth. “We have about 5 guys in our top 11 that are not in uniform,” LeBron said. “We’re mixing and matching a lot, trying to find ways, so it’s very challenging.”

With several crucial players out, their lack of depth has become even more evident. “We didn’t have much room for error at the beginning of the season, so to have five guys out… it’s a lot,” James noted.

Despite these setbacks, the LA side’s legacy talisman isn’t giving up. “We just gotta not drown,” he said, confident the team will bounce back. With a tough schedule ahead, including matchups with the Timberwolves, Grizzlies, and Blazers- JJ Redick and Co. are looking to get healthy first and then get back on track soon. Time’s ticking, but LeBron James believes they’ll be alright.