LeBron Reveals MCL Sprain Would've Sidelined Him in Lakers-Timberwolves Series

After the Lakers' first-round exit, LeBron James revealed he wouldn’t have returned in games six or seven against the Timberwolves due to a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee. On the 'Mind the Game' podcast, James explained the injury felt unlike anything he'd experienced before. Remarkably, the 40-year-old has never missed a playoff game in over 20 seasons, often playing through pain to support his team.

His admission highlights the seriousness of the injury, as even he would have sat out. James had just completed another impressive regular season, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists on 51.3% shooting in 70 games. Teaming up with Luka Doncic, he helped the Lakers secure the third seed in the Western Conference with 50 wins, but injury ultimately ended his postseason early.