Overview

• LeBron James flew back to Los Angeles to treat a left groin strain sustained during a game against the Boston Celtics, which ended the Lakers' eight-game winning streak.
• James has missed two consecutive games and will not participate in the Lakers' upcoming matchup against the Denver Nuggets on Friday.
• Lakers coach JJ Redick confirmed that Rui Hachimura (left patellar tendinopathy) and Jaxson Hayes (right knee bruise) also returned to Los Angeles for injury treatment.
• All three players are being evaluated on a day-to-day basis and are expected to rejoin the team during a five-game homestand starting Sunday against the Phoenix Suns.
• The Lakers, currently 4th in the Western Conference with a 40-23 record, have faced challenges maintaining momentum without their key players.