The Los Angeles Lakers beat the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night by way of a big LeBron James performance, despite not having key players Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and a few others.
But while James appeared to re-injure his hand, he expects to suit up once again in the Lakers’ Friday game against the Phoenix Suns.
Additionally, while Doncic and Reaves remain sidelined for the time being, Los Angeles could see the return of two other players who were featured on the injury report against the Warriors.
Lakers Get Good Injury News After Warriors Game
GettyPORTLAND, OREGON – NOVEMBER 03: Marcus Smart #36 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on November 03, 2025 in Portland, Oregon.
While it’s been the absent superstars leading headlines for the Lakers, Marcus Smart and Jaxson Hayes both missed the team’s contest against Golden State on Thursday.
However, according to head coach JJ Redick, he is hopeful both will get back on the court for Los Angeles on Friday against Phoenix.
Smart has now missed nine games in a row with an ankle injury. Redick had previously expressed hope that the guard would have already returned by now, but instead, he’s remained sidelined for nearly three weeks. Smart remains a key part of the Lakers’ starting lineup and rotation. Getting him back healthy for the playoffs would mean good news for Los Angeles’ first-round chances.
Additionally, as it relates to Hayes, he sat against the Warriors due to left foot soreness. His injury isn’t expected to be a major issue, but with the up-and-down performances of center Deandre Ayton, having Hayes healthy in a backup role is also key for a team that lacks true depth in the frontcourt.
The Lakers play the Suns on Friday, and while Smart and Hayes could be back, they’ll still be without Doncic and Reaves.
LeBron James Injury Update
GettyHOUSTON, TEXAS – MARCH 18: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts against the Houston Rockets during the first half at Toyota Center on March 18, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
James appeared to re-injury his hand in the Lakers’ win over Golden State.
According to Trevor Lane of LakersNation, James said it was the same injury he suffered against the Detroit Pistons a few weeks ago that did result in him being sidelined for a short period.
“LeBron James shared with Allie Clifton that his hand injury is something that happened against Detroit,” Lane wrote on X. “Compared it to a stinger and said every time it gets hit he feels it.”
Along with that, when asked about the injury specifically, James had another thing to say.
“It’ll be fine. I mean it’s not fine, but I’m good.”
“It’s a little sore. I was able to finish the game. It’s an injury that happened in Detroit. So I’ve been dealing with it with it since that road trip. And every time I get hit, it’s like a stinger. So it comes back, but I’ll be fine by tomorrow.”
As McMenamin reported, Redick expects James to suit up on Friday against the Suns.
With a win and a Houston Rockets loss, Los Angeles would clinch the fourth seed in the West. The Lakers are still in play for the third seed, but a first-round matchup against Houston is the most likely outcome for their postseason.
Lakers Get Good News For Game Vs Suns Despite LeBron James Injury