The Los Angeles Lakers entered Game 5 against the Minnesota Timberwolves fighting for their playoff lives. A win might have extended the series, but the road ahead was grim. The Lakers already struggled with defense, lacked a strong inside presence, and leaned heavily on LeBron James for everything. Then disaster struck. Late in the fourth quarter of Game 5, LeBron collided with Donte DiVincenzo on a moving screen. The play looked routine, but it left James grimacing in pain on the hardwood. He grabbed his left knee and limped off to the bench. Now, details have emerged about LeBron James’ injury—a Grade 2 MCL sprain, according to an MRI released by the Lakers a day later.
LeBron James Injury Means Lakers Stood No Chance
The injury usually requires three to five weeks of recovery. It would have forced James to miss Game 6 and likely more. For the first time in his career, he would have missed a playoff game due to injury. His ironman streak of 292 postseason appearances would have ended.
Lakers Had No Backup Plan
LeBron returned to finish Game 5 after a short visit with longtime trainer Mike Mancias. But the damage had already been done. The Lakers lost 103-96, and their season ended without drama. Even if they had pushed the series to a Game 6, they would’ve done so without their leader.
James took on more than just scoring. He served as a defensive anchor, often acting like corner back looking to intercept passing lanes or be part of double teams. He was second on the Lakers in rebounding (7.8), often battling big men in the paint. Without him, the Lakers’ thin rotation would have been exposed by a LeBron James injury.
Obvious Weaknesses Surfaced
The Lakers lacked answers in the post. Jaxson Hayes didn’t impress and remained on the outside of the playoff rotation. They were so desperate that JJ Redick played Maxi Kleber for a few minutes in the second half, despite not playing for months. Without LeBron’s defensive rotations and rebounding help, the Lakers would’ve collapsed in Game 6.
Game 5 already showed cracks. The Lakers couldn’t stop Minnesota’s ball movement. They struggled to contest shots and failed to establish any physical presence inside. The team seemed deflated by the fourth quarter, especially after LeBron’s brief exit.
Looking Ahead to Next Season
The front office is already working on plans for a stronger roster. JJ Redick urged the team to be in “championship shape” going into the offseason. Some interpreted that as subtle criticism of players like Luka Dončić, who faced fitness questions after his trade.
LeBron James, despite the injury, plans to return to the Lakers next season. Insider Shams Charania confirmed James may opt into his player option. He’ll likely wait to see what moves the Lakers make this summer. This injury would have reminded everyone just how dependent the Lakers are on LeBron James presence.
LeBron James Injury Would Have Left Lakers Shorthanded
This wasn’t just a loss—it was a warning sign. Even if the Lakers had won Game 5, LeBron’s injury would’ve ended their hopes. This underlines how fragile the team’s playoff chances truly were.
They need better depth. They need more size. And most of all, they need a plan that doesn’t collapse the moment James gets hurt.
Credit: © Matt Blewett-Imagn Images
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