In the Lakers’ blowout 140-109 win over the Houston Rockets, it wasn’t just the dominant scoreline or Luka Doncic’s brilliance that had fans buzzing.
A brief moment on the bench involving LeBron James stirred a wave of concern — and speculation.
LeBron’s Groin Injury History:
For Lakers fans, it was all too familiar — a potential sign of discomfort in the same groin area that’s plagued him in past seasons.
- On Christmas Day 2018, LeBron suffered a significant left groin strain vs. Golden State, missing 17 games — the longest absence of his career at the time.
- Earlier this season, on March 8, 2025, he strained the same area again in a game against Boston, causing a 7-game absence.
These recurring issues have made fans especially attentive to any signs of discomfort down the stretch.
During the second quarter, LeBron was seen adjusting his position on the bench with a focused expression, sparking concern across social media. With the playoffs approaching, even small signs like this don’t go unnoticed.
Redick Calms the Storm
Fortunately, head coach JJ Redick moved quickly to calm any brewing panic.
“He’s fine,” Redick said postgame. “It was just precautionary. Nothing happened — we just didn’t need to push it tonight.”
LeBron played just 22 minutes and was subbed out early in the second half. But any lingering worry was quickly eased when he was later seen on the sideline moonwalking after a highlight play by Austin Reaves — a very LeBron thing to do. His body language? Loose, animated, and fully engaged.
Doncic, Reaves Shine as Lakers Lock No. 3 Seed
As far as the game itself? Total domination.
Luka Doncic lit up the Rockets with 39 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists, while Austin Reaves added 23 on ultra-efficient shooting. The Lakers shot a scorching 60.9% from the field and never let up, notching their 50th win of the season and officially clinching the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference.
It was the kind of statement win teams look for heading into the postseason — fast-paced, unselfish, and led by stars stepping up at the right time.
Eyes on the Playoffs — and LeBron’s Health
LeBron’s bench moment might have stirred concern, but it’s clear there’s no crisis brewing. With the Lakers locked into playoff position and chemistry peaking, all signs point to a team ready to make noise in the West.
Still, every small movement from LeBron will be watched under a microscope from here on out — especially when it comes to that groin.
