In a significant boost for the struggling team, superstar LeBron James has been officially cleared to take the court for the Los Angeles Lakers in their high-stakes road game against the Phoenix Suns. The marquee NBA clash is scheduled for the evening of December 23, 2025, at the Suns' home arena.
LeBron James Cleared, Lakers Battle Injury Woes
The confirmation of James's availability comes directly from the team's official injury report, where his name was notably absent. This news is a major relief for the Lakers, who are navigating a challenging period with multiple key players sidelined. James, the team's veteran leader, remains the one constant force holding the rotation together amidst the adversity.
His availability is perfectly timed, as he enters the contest riding a wave of impressive form. James is coming off a season-high 36-point performance against the LA Clippers, demonstrating no visible signs of fatigue or limitation despite carrying a heavy workload throughout the month. Early-season caution related to past sciatica issues has now completely faded, allowing him to play without any restrictions.
Lakers and Suns Injury Reports: Who's In, Who's Out
The Lakers will be severely short-handed for this Western Conference battle. The most significant absence is All-Star guard Luka Dončić, who is ruled out with a left leg contusion. This places an even greater offensive burden on LeBron James, who will need to orchestrate both scoring and playmaking.
Joining Dončić on the sidelines are forwards Rui Hachimura (right groin soreness) and guard Gabe Vincent (lumbar back strain). This depleted roster means James's minutes and usage rate are expected to climb even higher.
On the other side, the Phoenix Suns are in relatively better health but will not be at full strength. Guard Jalen Green has been ruled out due to a right hamstring strain. Additionally, veteran shooter Grayson Allen is listed as doubtful for the game as he manages a right knee issue.
Game Preview: What to Expect in Phoenix
This matchup sets up as a nationally televised spectacle featuring two teams fiercely competing for playoff positioning. With Dončić unavailable, the Lakers' offensive strategy will revolve entirely around LeBron James, especially in crucial late-game possessions.
The Suns, led by Devin Booker, are anticipated to deploy a physical defensive scheme aimed at disrupting the Lakers' already thin rotation. Execution and limiting turnovers will be paramount for Los Angeles. James's ability to control the game's tempo will be the single biggest factor determining if the Lakers can stay competitive into the fourth quarter.
The Lakers can draw confidence from a recent victory over the same opponent. On December 15, 2025, they narrowly defeated the Suns 116–114, with James sealing the win calmly from the free-throw line in the closing moments. That experience of late-game control will be invaluable, even with a more limited supporting cast this time around.
Statistically for the season, LeBron James has appeared in 11 games, averaging an impressive 20 points, 7 assists, and 5.6 rebounds per contest. His sustained high level of play will be the Lakers' primary hope as they face a tough opponent on the road.
