The Los Angeles Lakers entered their matchup against the Indiana Pacers at Crypto.com Arena with several key absences. In a recent interview, JJ Redick provided an update on the status of LeBron James, Deandre Ayton, and Maxi Kleber, three players currently unavailable.

The situation drawing the most concern involves LeBron James, who left the previous game against the Denver Nuggets banged up. Still, Redick expressed cautious optimism about the recovery timeline for the Lakers star.

LeBron suffered a contusion. He’s a bit sore, but we think he could be available as soon as Sunday. Ayton is day-to-day. As for Maxi, we ran tests this morning and the results were very positive, so he’s also day-to-day

JJ Redick

LeBron James Out vs Pacers: The Elbow Injury

The physical issue for LeBron James dates back to the fourth quarter of the 120-113 loss to Denver. During a drive to the basket, the four-time MVP fell to the floor after contact with Nikola Jokic, immediately grabbing his left elbow.

The Lakers veteran returned to the floor a few minutes later but was unable to finish the game and admitted after the contest that he was still feeling significant pain.

His absence against Indiana marked the 19th game missed this season for the Lakers’ leader, who is also dealing with arthritis in his left foot. Interestingly, the team’s record without him remains positive: 11 wins and 7 losses.

The goal of the Lakers’ medical staff is to have him ready in time for Sunday’s matchup against the New York Knicks.