Anthony Davis and LeBron James (Images Credit: Getty Images)
After an exhausting stretch of 23 straight games, LeBron James was sidelined during the Lakers’ hard-fought 107-98 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. Initially, reports stated that his absence was due to soreness in his left foot. However, as the team prepared for their next game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, head coach JJ Redick clarified that the absence was related to personal reasons.

The 39-year-old superstar recently returned in a game against the Memphis Grizzlies at Crypto.com Arena. In that game, James scored 18 points, recorded eight assists, and grabbed eight rebounds in 34 minutes. Moreover, in a recent interview with Spectrum Sportsnet, Anthony Davis mentioned that James is dealing with some issues.

Anthony Davis on LeBron:

“He’s dealing with some stuff.”

(h/t @LakersDailyCom) pic.twitter.com/jSA6PLrkY3

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops)

December 16, 2024

“He’s dealing with some stuff. But think the week off kind of just let him heal and get back right. He came out with a ton of energy, which kind of guy that’s going at first quarter.” Davis said in a recent interview with Spectrum Sportsnet.

Davis had a remarkable performance in that game, scoring 40 points, providing two assists, and grabbing 16 rebounds. This outstanding effort contributed to the Lakers’ 116-110 victory against the Grizzlies. In the interview, Davis did not disclose what kind of issues James was dealing with, which raised concerns among the fans.

LeBron James Reflects On His Lingering Foot Injury

James has delivered an impressive performance during the 2024-25 NBA season. The Lakers star is currently averaging 22.8 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 9.1 assists over the 24 games he has played this season. After missing two consecutive games, James has returned with renewed energy. In a recent interview with Spectrum SportsNet, the 39-year-old star discussed his foot injury and its challenges.

“It’s an everyday thing,. It’s been lingering for the last few years… Probably three days ago it was still pretty sore. But I’m able to get that back to 100 (percent), so that was great, so I was able to hit a lot of other elements as well.” James said.

The Lakers are in 10th place in the Western Conference, with 14 wins and 12 losses. With James back on the court, fans are feeling a surge of optimism for the games ahead.

REPORT: Former Raiders Head Coach Jon Gruden Signs Multi-Year Deal As He Lands Surprising New Job

Jon Gruden (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

Former NFL coach Jon Gruden has landed a surprising new job.

According to Barstool Sports owner Dave Portnoy, the former Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Las Vegas Raiders head coach has signed a multi-year deal with the company.

Portnoy posted the video below to social media, which shows the 61-year-old taking over a whiteboard session and asking a class including the likes of Portnoy and Big Cat whether they want to “learn some football” after explaining a play.

Check it out here: