LeBron James will be sidelined for 1-2 weeks due to a groin strain, evoking memories of his 2018 injury. Although the Lakers face a challenge, it offers an opportunity for other players to step up. The team's depth and resilience will be tested as they navigate their ascent in the Western Conference without their leader.

Though Luka Dončić’s fourth-quarter explosion showed he is capable of keeping the Lakers in big games, LeBron James’ fourth-quarter groin injury will loom large after this loss, which snapped Los Angeles’ eight-game win streak. With 6:44 left in the game, James called for a timeout and eventually headed to the locker room with a left groin strain.

The Los Angeles Lakers entered Saturday's marquee battle with the Boston Celtics riding an eight-game winning streak, but they walked away having lost more than just the game. With 6:44 remaining in the fourth quarter,