Report: ‘Optimism’ Around Lakers LeBron James Can Play Tonight vs. Hornets

According to NBA insider Shams Charania of ESPN, there is “optimism” around the Los Angeles Lakers that LeBron James can play tonight (2/19) against the Charlotte Hornets. 

LeBron is dealing with a left foot injury. He didn’t play in the All-Star Game. 

Shams says there’s optimism that LeBron can play tonight vs the Hornets pic.twitter.com/l2taPGAX0f

— Oh No He Didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) February 19, 2025

LeBron has appeared in 48 games this season. He’s averaging 24.3 points, 7.7 rebounds and 9.0 assists while shooting 51.6% from the field, 39.5% from beyond the arc and 75.9% from the free-throw line. 

The Lakers are in fifth place in the Western Conference standings. They are 32-20.

LeBron, 40, is the oldest player in the NBA. 

Los Angeles shocked the NBA world by acquiring Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks. The team is 1-1 with Doncic in the lineup. 

According to NBA insider Sam Amick of The Athletic, Doncic‘s father, Sasa, was amazed watching LeBron work out four hours before the Lakers-Golden State Warriors game on February 6.

LeBron’s work ethic has been deemed unmatched in NBA circles. 

“On the first night that Doncic was an official member of the storied franchise, the incumbent superstar, James, followed his regular pregame routine and took the floor at approximately 3:30 p.m. local time for a game against Golden State that was still four hours away,” Amick wrote. “This isn’t the norm in the NBA, where most players — Doncic among them — typically don’t hit the hardwood until about two hours before tipoff. But James, as we’ve come to learn in these past 22 seasons, is anything but normal.

“According to people who saw the scene unfold on Thursday night, Doncic’s attending family, including his father, Sasa, took notice of the dedication on display as they sat near the court. There was a sense of respect and amazement, the people said, with Sasa repeatedly turning around to watch James’ remarkable regimen.”

LeBron scored 42 points against the Warriors, becoming the oldest player in NBA history to score 40 points in a game.