James Returns, Curry Manages Ankle Tweak for NBA Playoffs

As the NBA regular season nears its conclusion, injuries continue to shape playoff positioning in the Western Conference, with Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James and Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry providing key updates on their availability. James, who missed a game earlier this week due to left foot soreness, returned to the lineup Thursday night against the Warriors, while Curry sat out that contest for knee management but tweaked his ankle the following day and remains on track to play Sunday.

James, 39, has managed foot discomfort throughout the season but was cleared to face Golden State after sitting out Tuesday's loss to Oklahoma City. In his previous outing Sunday against Dallas, he recorded 30 points, nine rebounds and 15 assists, though the Lakers fell 134-128. The team has struggled without guards Luka Dončić, sidelined by a Grade 2 left hamstring strain, and Austin Reaves, out with a Grade 2 left oblique injury—both expected to miss the rest of the regular season and potentially the playoffs. Friday's 101-73 home win over Phoenix highlighted James's elevated role, where he scored 28 points with 12 assists, six rebounds and four steals. Over the...