Shocking update on LeBron James, Luka Doncic as Lakers Stars Miss Celtics Clash

The Los Angeles Lakers will face the Boston Celtics on December 6, 2025 without LeBron James and Luka Doncic. The team ruled both stars out in their latest injury report released hours before tipoff.

The absences come at a challenging time for the Lakers. James continues to deal with lingering health issues, while Doncic remains away from the team due to a family matter. The team also confirmed that Marcus Smart will miss the game.

Latest Injury Decisions on LeBron James and Luka Doncic

The Lakers listed LeBron James as out due to right sciatica and left foot joint arthritis. These issues have limited his availability all season. He has appeared in only six of the team’s first 21 games. His scoring average of 14.0 points per game is the lowest of his career. The team has not provided a timetable for his full return.

Luka Doncic is also unavailable. He remains in Slovenia following the birth of his second child. The Lakers labeled his absence as personal. He will not suit up for the December 6 matchup. Marcus Smart was also ruled out with a left lumbar muscle strain.

The timing of James’ absence is notable. His streak of consecutive double digit scoring games ended at Toronto on December 5. He finished with eight points but chose to pass to Rui Hachimura for the game winning shot. James said he was focused on making the correct basketball play. This has been a defining theme of his career and remains unchanged even as he manages injuries.

The Lakers will rely on their depth against Boston. The team has adjusted to frequent lineup changes this season. Yet missing James, Doncic, and Smart reduces their playmaking and scoring options. Several role players are expected to see increased minutes.

Team Outlook with Stars Unavailable

The Lakers face a significant challenge without two franchise cornerstones. James provides leadership and efficient scoring when healthy. Doncic brings elite playmaking and shot creation. Their absence shifts offensive responsibilities across the roster.

The team has prioritized long term health management this season. James’ recurring issues require caution and monitoring. Doncic’s personal commitment is expected to conclude soon, but the team has not announced his return date.

Boston enters the matchup at full strength. The Celtics have one of the league’s top defenses. This further increases the degree of difficulty for the Lakers. The team must rely on ball movement, rebounding, and transition scoring to stay competitive.

The Lakers will continue evaluating both players in the coming days. The shocking update on LeBron James and Luka Doncic underscores how injuries and personal factors have shaped the early part of Los Angeles’ season.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why are LeBron James and Luka Doncic not playing today?

James is out with right sciatica and left knee arthritis. Doncic is out for personal reasons and remains in Slovenia after the birth of his child.

Q2: When could LeBron James return?

The Lakers have not provided a clear return date. His availability depends on how he responds to treatment.

Q3: Is Luka Doncic expected to miss more games?

The team has not announced future absences. His status will be updated once he returns from Slovenia.

Q4: How will the Lakers adjust without their stars?

The team will rely on deeper rotations. More scoring and playmaking opportunities will shift to role players.

Q5: Is Marcus Smart available for the Celtics game?

No. Smart is out with a left lumbar muscle strain.