Golf Takes Back Seat for LeBron James as Injury-Ridden Lakers Stress Out Superstar

JR Smith says LeBron James called off a friendly golf match after learning about the injuries to Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic.

Golf Takes Back Seat for LeBron James as Injury-Ridden Lakers Stress Out Superstar

Los Angeles Lakers might be better off benching LeBron James (Image via FirstSportz)

In Short
  • LeBron James canceled a golf match due to increased responsibilities following injuries to teammates Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
  • James led the Lakers to a 119-103 victory over the Warriors, scoring 26 points and contributing significantly on both ends of the court.
  • He expressed his commitment to stepping up, stating, "Everything. Nothing changes for me. It is back to the old ways."

All eyes are on LeBron James after back-to-back setbacks for the Los Angeles Lakers in the form of injuries. With Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves ruled out for the remainder of the regular season and the beginning of the playoffs, it is up to James to shoulder the offensive burden.

James’ former Cleveland Cavaliers teammate, JR Smith, revealed that James canceled a friendly golf match in Dallas after recent developments.

It’s funny because he texted the group chat, because it was in Dallas when he was playing, and we were supposed to play golf. He’s like, ‘Man, I can’t play golf, I got too much on my shoulders right now. If this were five years ago, I would definitely play.’ But it’s tough, man. It’s always next man up mentality, so I’m excited to see who can possibly step up for them.

JR Smith on LeBron James calling off a golf match

After playing some of their best basketball of the season in the month of March, the Lakers have had a rough start in April. Doncic injured his hamstring and has been ruled out for four to six weeks, while Reaves has been diagnosed with a Grade 2 left oblique muscle injury and will be sidelined for a similar time period.

The two injuries have forced LeBron James to take up a bigger role. While he may not be the player he once was, James showed he can still lead as the Lakers registered a convincing 119-103 victory over the Golden State Warriors at the Chase Arena on Thursday night.

JR Smith spent four seasons with James during their time in Cleveland. They formed a strong relationship with one another and continue to be close to this date. Based on the former champion’s statements, James is well aware of the heavy burden he is supposed to carry right now by canceling his friendly golf match, which has been a recent obsession for the four-time champion.

LeBron James is back to his old ways

The win over the Warriors was a much-needed boost for the Lakers heading into the postseason. The Lakers put an end to their three-match losing streak against a depleted Warriors side.

LeBron James could expect boos from Memphis residents the next time he faces them
LeBron James (Image via The Score/X)

On Thursday night, LeBron James had a double-double as he scored a game-high 26 points to go along with eight rebounds, ten assists, two steals, and one block in under 32 minutes of action. In his courtside interview, James was asked what was required of him after the recent events. He said:

Everything. Nothing changes for me. It is back to the old ways.

LeBron James on what he needs to do

It was an impressive performance on both ends of the court from the 41-year-old. James has faced criticism for his lack of effort in defense, but he has been more engaged on both ends of the court in recent weeks.

LeBron James on how much he cherishes his relationship with Stephen Curry

LeBron James and Stephen Curry have dominated the NBA over the last decade. However, Curry was ruled out as the Warriors played on the first night of their back-to-back. The two have battled each other in the NBA Finals four times from 2015 to 2018. While they formed one of the biggest rivalries in NBA history, they share immense admiration and respect for each other.

Following the win, James spoke about his relationship with Curry over the years.

It’s been 18 years of us just being on a wavelength. Just mutual respect and one of the most competitive guys I’ve ever played against.

LeBron James in his post-match media scrum

The two have not faced each other this regular season. James missed their first matchup, while Curry has missed the next three. With no confirmation of James continuing into his 24th season, the NBA world will be hoping to see a few more battles between the two icons.

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