‘Be Responsible’: Lakers’ Frank Vogel Drops a Major LeBron James Return Update

The Lakers are in a tough situation after losing four of their last five games. The defending champions now stand close to a negligible chance to break it into the Top Four and face a danger of slipping even further down. Now, more than ever, they need LeBron James back in the playing squad. 

As refreshing news, the update on the Akron Hammer signals that he might make his much-awaited return against the Kings tonight. If that happens, it’ll be a major boost for the Lakers who are struggling big time.

Coach Frank Vogel with an optimistic update on LeBron James

In an update, The Athletic’s Shams Charania claimed that King James can show up against the Kings, given the warmups go well. Also, coach Frank Vogel has hinted positive news on Bron’s comeback and hinted no hard minute restrictions on the 36-YO veteran. As an addition to the breaking news, the coach signaled that they’re yet to decide whether he can play back-to-backs down the stretch.

Notably, LeBron James injured his ankle against the Hawks on March 20. So it has been 40 days since he last played a game, his longest ever since the 2018-19 season when he joined the Lake Show. 

Frank Vogel says there is no hard minutes restriction for LeBron beyond “be responsible” with his minutes.

— Harrison Faigen (@hmfaigen) May 1, 2021

So for coach Vogel to show such confidence in Bron’s return, imposing no restrictions, is a surprise given the 20 games he has missed. Still, the catch is with the “be responsible” phrase because the four-time champion would not risk his playoff fitness for regular games.

Read also – Former Rockets Coach Believes LeBron James Would Get $80+ Million Deals If Not For NBA’s Contract Rules

What all did the Lakers lose in the meantime? 

The LA-based franchise became a sloth without their floor general. Their games against the Nets and the Jazz being the exception, the team remained 8-12 in the 40-day stretch. Also, they struggled in almost every department because of the L-Train’s absence.

Since March 20, the Lakers’ shooting accuracy has plummeted by 3.4%, their points per game have taken a hit, the turnovers have become a problem, and the assist figures have also gone down.

Moreover, the team has a new entrant in Andre Drummond and the Lakers would want Bron to spend enough time with him before the postseason. As of today, the Lakers have 10 more games to go and they would need win streaks if they’re to safeguard themselves from sliding out of the Top Six.

Do you think LeBron James can pull the Lakers from here? Help us know your views in the comments.

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