LeBron James, Anthony Davis Not Expected To Play In Olympics

Lakers stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis are both likely to skip the 2021 Summer Olympics in Tokyo after each struggled with injuries throughout the regular season, according to Joe Vardon of The Athletic.

James, 36, indicated last week that he intends to sit out the Olympics, saying he plans to use the offseason to recuperate after the first first-round playoff exit of his 18-year career.

James missed 20 straight games with a high ankle sprain, then several more after that following a brief return. He said the injury was still lingering during the playoffs.

Meanwhile, Davis appeared in just 36 regular-season games after suffering calf and Achilles injuries, then missed the most or all of the final three playoff games with a groin strain.

Vardon also noted that Warriors point guard Steph Curry is “50-50” as to whether he will play in the Olympics.

The U.S. men’s basketball team announced 57 finalists for the Olympic roster in March and needs to turn in a 12-man lineup by July 5. No date has been set for the start of training camp in Las Vegas.

Further complicating matters for U.S. coach Gregg Popovich is the fact the Finals start on July 8, with a potential Game 7 set for July 22. The Olympics are schedule to begin July 23 in Tokyo.