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LeBron James reveals details of knee injury in the playoffs and suffers a serious knee injury for the first time in his career!

11:56am, 14 May 2025【Basketball】

On May 9, Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James disclosed for the first time in his podcast program "Brain of the Stadium" in his first detailed knee injury during this year's playoffs. The 39-year-old NBA veteran confirmed that this was the first time in his 22-year career that severe structural knee injury occurred.

According to James, the injury occurred in the fourth quarter of Game 5 against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs. James suffered a second-degree sprain in the medial collateral ligament on his left knee after a collision with New York Knicks player Donte Divinchenzo. "The knee immediately showed stiffness at that time, and the pain was far more painful than any previous knee discomfort," James recalled. "After the game, the medical team recommended that it would take 4-6 weeks of recovery. "

James admitted that even if the Lakers won Game 5 at that time, their physical condition would be difficult to support the subsequent matches. "The medical evaluation shows that even if I advance successfully, I will most likely miss the sixth, seventh and even possible second-round games. From a competitive perspective, it is equivalent to season reimbursement. "

Regarding the team's first round elimination, James said he has fully accepted the reality. "After the necessary emotional adjustments, the main focus is on observing the tactical evolution of other series. " the four-time champion added.

It is worth noting that James has $51.4 million in player options this summer. At an earlier season summary meeting, he had made it clear that he would fully evaluate all possible career options during the offseason. The injury situation is expected to be one of the important factors affecting its final decision. Medical experts point out that a secondary sprain in the medial collateral ligament usually requires a natural recovery period of 4-6 weeks, and for professional athletes, the age of 39 may appropriately extend the recovery process. The Lakers' medical team has not issued an official statement on James' detailed recovery plan.