Tag: Los Angeles Lakers

Finney-Smith Undergoes Surgery, Eyes Training Camp Return

Dorian Finney-Smith (Los Angeles Lakers)
June 2025

Lakers forward Dorian Finney-Smith has undergone left ankle surgery and is expected to return fully fit for 2025-26 training camp. The injury had hampered him for multiple seasons despite strong performances after his midseason arrival from Brooklyn.
After battling chronic ankle pain, Finney-Smith opted for surgery to resolve lingering issues. The Lakers value him highly, and his recovery timeline aligns with extension eligibility. He has until June 29 to decide on his $15.4M player option.

LeBron James Diagnosed with MCL Sprain After Lakers’ Playoff Exit

LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers)
May 2, 2025

An MRI confirmed LeBron James suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee during Game 5 of the Lakers’ first-round playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, ending his historic streak of playoff appearances without missing a game.
The injury happened in the fourth quarter after a collision with Donte DiVincenzo on a moving screen. Though James finished the game, doctors estimate a 3–5 week recovery period. He would have missed Game 6 if the series had continued.

Lakers’ Early Playoff Exit Leaves Bettors Empty-Handed

Los Angeles Lakers
May 2025 (NBA Playoffs)

The Lakers, the most heavily bet-on team to win the NBA Finals this season, were eliminated in the first round by the Timberwolves, dashing hopes for bettors who placed massive wagers after the Luka Doncic trade.
After their title odds shortened from 40-1 to 13-1 post-trade, sportsbooks like ESPN BET and FanDuel saw surges in Lakers bets, including a $100,000 Finals wager at 10-1. Their early exit means sportsbooks retain the bulk of that betting volume.

Redick Calls for Conditioning Overhaul After Lakers Exit

JJ Redick (Los Angeles Lakers)
May 2025 (Postseason Exit)

Lakers coach JJ Redick emphasized the need for better offseason conditioning after a 4-1 first-round loss to Minnesota, citing poor fourth-quarter performances as a key issue.
Redick said some players lacked championship-level fitness and GM Rob Pelinka highlighted the lack of size post-Doncic trade, promising to add a center. Pelinka also reaffirmed commitment to LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves.

Luka Doncic Funds Restoration of Vandalized Kobe & Gigi Mural

Luka Doncic (Los Angeles Lakers)
April 2025

Luka Doncic donated $5,000 to fully fund the restoration of the “Mambas Forever” mural in LA, which was vandalized. The mural honors Lakers legend Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gigi.
The mural’s artist launched a GoFundMe after the vandalism; Doncic paid the full amount. He said giving back to the community is important. The act has been praised by fans and the artist.

Lakers’ Fourth-Quarter Woes Continue, Face Elimination in Game 5

Los Angeles Lakers
April 2025 (Game 4 aftermath, ahead of Game 5)

The Lakers have fallen 3-1 behind the Timberwolves after another poor fourth quarter, scoring just 19 points and missing crucial shots in Game 4. Coach JJ Redick defended his rotation decisions despite scrutiny.
Redick became the first coach since 1998 to play the same five men for an entire half. Doncic and James missed key shots late, while Redick benched his usual reserves. The Lakers are being outscored 105-69 in fourth quarters this series.

NBA Confirms Missed Foul on Luka Doncic Late in Lakers’ Game 4 Loss

Luka Doncic (Los Angeles Lakers) v Jaden McDaniels (Minnesota Timberwolves)
April 2025 (First-Round Playoffs)

NBA’s Last Two Minute Report revealed referees missed a foul on Luka Doncic by Jaden McDaniels with 33 seconds left in Game 4; Lakers lost 116-113.
Doncic was tripped but no foul was called; Lakers later turned over the ball and Minnesota sealed the win with free throws. Lakers now trail 1-3 in the series.

Ill Luka Doncic Struggles as Lakers Fall to Timberwolves in Game 3

Luka Doncic (Los Angeles Lakers)
April 26, 2025 (First-Round Playoffs, Game 3)

Luka Doncic battled a stomach illness and was limited to 17 points as the Los Angeles Lakers lost 116-104 to the Minnesota Timberwolves, falling behind 2-1 in the series.
Doncic vomited all afternoon before tipoff and played through sickness; turnovers and a late 13-1 Timberwolves run sealed the Lakers’ defeat. Game 4 is scheduled for Sunday.

Kobe Bryant Rookie Jersey Sells for $7M, Sets New Record for Bryant Memorabilia

Kobe Bryant (Los Angeles Lakers)
April 2025 (Auction held Thursday)

A jersey worn by Kobe Bryant during his 1996-97 rookie season sold for $7 million at Sotheby’s, breaking the record for any Bryant collectible.
The jersey was photo-matched to seven games including his NBA debut. It surpassed the $5.8M record set by his 2007-08 MVP season jersey and is now the fourth-most-expensive game-worn jersey ever sold.

LeBron James Leads with All-Around Game, Praises Team’s Mindset Shift

LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
April 2025

LeBron James delivered 21 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists in Game 2, attributing the win to a gritty mindset established in practice.
James emphasized the team’s response after getting “punked” in Game 1. His late-game steal and score on Anthony Edwards helped seal the win.

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