NBA Injury Report Week 14: LeBron James set to return this week, Lonzo Ball injury, and more

LeBron James - Groin - Should Return Later This Week

Los Angeles Lakers v Golden State Warriors

LeBron James has been out of action for the Los Angeles Lakers since suffering a groin injury during the Lakers Christmas Day win over the Golden State Warriors. The 14-time All-Star has already been away from the team for nearly a month, and in this time, the Lakers have struggled. Without James, the Lakers have slipped from 4th to 9th, and the team now faces a major fight to make the postseason.

Nevertheless, after missing the Lakers last 11 games, James returned to full practice on Sunday evening. Lakers head coach, Luke Walton has stated that the superstar is unlikely to play against the Houston Rockets on Monday, although the 34-year-old could be set for a return later in the week. The Lakers will face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday, followed by the Suns on Sunday evening, and James is likely to feature in at least one of these matchups.