Lakers excludes LeBron James vs. Pacers because of the tenderness of the ankle

Los Angeles – Lakers star LeBron James was excluded from Saturday’s match against Indiana Pacers due to left ankle tenderness, the team announced.

The newly acquired star Luka Doncic is also out due to a left calf strain. Doncic is targeted at debuting in Lakers when LA hosts Utah Jazz on Monday, a source told Doncic’s plans, to ESPN. Center Mark Williams, which La acquired from Charlotte Hornets in a separate deal, was also excluded where coach JJ Redick said the trade is still “pending.”

It will be James’ fourth unanswered game this season. He average 24.5 points on 51.6% shooting (39.1% from 3), 9.0 assists and 7.8 rebounds in this, his 22nd season. James scored a season high 42 points on 14-for-25 shooting with 17 rebounds and eight assists in Lakers’ victory over the Golden State Warriors on Thursday. It was the first time James topped the 40-point plateau since he turned 40 in December.

Lakers have won four straight matches and 10 of their last 12 to move up to No. 5 in the Western Conference position. Indiana, who has won seven of its last 10, is No. 4 in the Eastern Conference and comes from a 119-112 victory over La Clippers on Thursday.