The Los Angeles Lakers are facing a mounting injury crisis as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Milwaukee Bucks. LeBron James, the team’s star forward, is doubtful for the game due to a left ankle peroneal tendinopathy. This would be the second game he misses against the Bucks, having sat out their previous encounter on March 8th, which saw D’Angelo Russell step up and lead the team to victory with a 44-point performance.
In addition to James, the Lakers have several other key players sidelined with injuries. Gabe Vincent, the reserve point guard, is recovering from left knee effusion surgery and has only played five games this season. Christian Wood, a backup big man, recently underwent left knee surgery and is unlikely to return this season. Jarred Vanderbilt, a combo forward, is out with a lingering right midfoot strain.
The absence of James, who has been pivotal for the Lakers this season, averaging 25.4 points, 8.1 assists, and 7.2 rebounds per game, will be a significant blow to the team. Head coach Darvin Ham may opt to start Spencer Dinwiddie in his place, as he did in the previous game, or consider starting Taurean Prince, a 3-and-D backup combo forward. The Lakers will need to find a way to cope with these injuries as they push towards the end of the season.
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