Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James is listed as out for Tuesday’s matchup against the San Antonio Spurs with right ankle soreness.
James hurt his ankle during Sunday’s win over the Memphis Grizzlies after it got caught up in a collision with Desmond Bane.
The 36-year-old spent some time on the floor in pain before eventually staying in the game.
“Just wanted to take a moment on the floor, just hopefully it wasn’t getting worse,” James told reporters postgame.
“I had an opportunity just to tie my shoe again and see if I’m able to go, I was able to continue to go.”
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The Lakers are likely proceeding with caution as the ailment is the same ankle as James’ high sprain last season, which sidelined him for over 20 games to end the year.
With Los Angeles searching for its first win of the season against the Grizzlies, James logged over 40 minutes of court time, finishing with 19 points, six rebounds and six assists.
Speaking with reporters after the game, James admitted it was hard not to think of last season’s injury.
“The first thing I was thinking to myself was not again,” James said.
“Because obviously it was almost similar, but not the same kind of play. Guy falls into my leg and there’s nothing you can do about it and I couldn’t get my leg out of there in time.”
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He had been hopeful he would recover in time to play against the Spurs, but instead he will watch from the sidelines as the Lakers attempt to get back to .500 after a 1-2 start.
Head coach Frank Vogel announced that Malik Monk will enter the starting group for James, who will be listed as questionable for tomorrow night’s game against the Oklahoma City Thunder.