LeBron James sprained a ligament in his left knee during the Los Angeles Lakers’ final playoff match, according to an anonymous source. The Lakers were eliminated by the Minnesota Timberwolves in five games, and the injury was confirmed after the postseason medical exam.

James, 40, faced potential weeks off if the Lakers had advanced further. His remarkable streak of participating in 292 playoff games could have been affected had the team made it past Game 5, where he sustained the injury after a collision with Donte DiVincenzo, who was called for an offensive foul.

After initially leaving the game, James returned to finish with 22 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. He stated he would contemplate his future in basketball but has not confirmed whether he will return for a record 23rd NBA season. While he averaged 24.4 points per game this past season, this was his lowest since his rookie year.

The Lakers triumphed 52 times during the regular season and clinched the Pacific Division title, overcoming challenges, including a significant trade for Luka Doncic.