Lakers vs Celtics Preview, Predictions, Lineups and njury Report: Is LeBron James Playing Tonight?

The Los Angeles Lakers are 16 games into the 2021-22 season, their performance not where anyone was expecting it to be. The team is desperately looking to gain momentum, the game against the Boston Celtics is the perfect opportunity to do so. The Celtics, on their end, are playing with a similar record, each win important for the team.

James, who was averaging 24.8 points per game, is crucial for the team to succeed. With two consecutive losses to their name, every move the Lakers make is going to prove vital. Unfortunately, James’ injury has had him sidelined for quite some time, fans already worrying about him being away for longer.

Frank Vogel says LeBron James will be a gametime decision tonight in Boston

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) November 19, 2021

Is LeBron James Playing Tonight against the Boston Celtics

According to recent reports, LeBron James is going to be a game-time decision at the TD Garden. While his status was uncertain before, it was also changed to questionable some time before he was said to be a game-time decision. Despite everything, there is still a chance that the Lakers play a few more games without the 36-year-old.

However, even though his absence affects the team, James’ health remains a priority for the Lakers.

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Last season, James’ extended absence cost the team their spot in the points table. Eventually, it cost them their playoffs. Even after the altered roster, the Lakers are looking to avoid that scenario at all costs.

James is currently dealing with an abdominal strain, not supposed to keep him out for long.

“I hope,” James said while speaking of his return. As per ESPN, there are 50-50 chances that James will be available to play in Boston.

Nov 1, 2021; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) reacts during the second half against the Chicago Bulls at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports

The four-time champion, was a part of the team’s on-court workout “I’ll leave that to the medical team,” Vogel said earlier this week. “I know he did some work today. I haven’t gotten the reports on how that went yet. But I’ll leave that between him and the medical team to make the decision of when he’s ready to go.”

Unfortunately for the Lakers, they will also be playing without Anthony Davis, who is the next most important piece to the Lakers puzzle.

The Celtics have Jaylen Brown and Robert Williams III questionable for the game.

Possible Lakers starting lineup

Russell Westbrook
Avery Bradley
Talen Horton-Tucker
Carmelo Anthony
DeAndre Jordan

Possible Celtics starting lineup

Marcus Smart
Josh Richardson
Jayson Tatum
Al Horford
Enes Kanter

READ MORE: Massive LeBron James Update Ahead of Lakers’ Game Against Arch-Rival Boston Celtics

Nov 2, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) moves the ball against Houston Rockets guard Kevin Porter Jr. (3) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Result Prediction: Will the Lakers manage to win without LeBron?

Despite James and Davis being sidelined, the odds are still in the Lakers favour. Russell Westbrook will continue to lead the team, hoping to become more and more comfortable with the roster. Brown’s absence might be problematic for the Celtics, who last lost 110-99 against the Hawks. The Lakers, with losses against the Chicago Bulls and Milwaukee Bucks, can be slightly more desperate to not lose a third in a row.

Who do you will win the game? Will James be back on the course?

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