Will LeBron James play tonight against the Milwaukee Bucks? Latest update on the Los Angeles Lakers star's injury report (March 13, 2025)

The Los Angeles Lakers will face the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday, March 13, without their star forward LeBron James, who has been ruled out with a leg injury. The highly anticipated matchup at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee will tip off at 7:30 p.m. ET, but James’ absence could significantly impact the Lakers’ performance as they aim to maintain their playoff momentum.

LeBron James will not be playing tonight against the Milwaukee Bucks. James, who has been a cornerstone for the Los Angeles Lakers this season, is averaging 25.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 6.8 assists over the last 20 games. His leadership and on-court presence have been instrumental in the team’s success, making his absence a major blow. The Lakers are already dealing with multiple injuries, including Maxi Kleber (foot), Rui Hachimura (knee), and Jaxson Hayes (knee), all of whom are also ruled out. Luka Doncic, another key player, is listed as questionable with an ankle issue.

The Milwaukee Bucks, meanwhile, are in relatively better shape heading into the game. Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf) and Damian Lillard (groin) are both listed as probable, giving Milwaukee a significant advantage. Antetokounmpo, the NBA’s second-leading scorer with 30.7 points per game, will be a focal point for the Bucks as they look to capitalize on the Lakers’ depleted roster.
The Los Angeles Lakers currently hold a 40-23 record, ranking eighth in the NBA in points allowed (111.1 per game). However, their offensive output has been middling, averaging 112.9 points per game (17th in the league). Without LeBron James, the team will rely heavily on Austin Reaves, who leads the team with 18.8 points per game, and Doncic, if he is cleared to play.
The Bucks, sitting at 36-28, have a slight edge in scoring differential (+132) and rank 13th in the league with 114.6 points per game. Their ability to control the boards, led by Antetokounmpo’s 12.1 rebounds per game, could prove decisive against a Lakers squad that struggles on the glass, ranking 25th with 42.8 rebounds per game.

Fans can catch the game on TNT, SportsNet LA, truTV, and MAX, with live streaming available on Max (regional restrictions may apply).
Also read: Will Giannis Antetokounmpo play tonight against the Los Angeles Lakers? Latest update on the Milwaukee Bucks star's injury report (March 13, 2025)
As the Los Angeles Lakers navigate this challenging stretch without their superstar, the Bucks will look to exploit their opponent’s vulnerabilities and secure a crucial win in their playoff push. LeBron James’ injury status will remain a key storyline as the Lakers hope for his swift return to the court.