Lakers-Knicks Injury Report: LeBron James, Deandre Ayton Update

The Los Angeles Lakers will be shorthanded against the New York Knicks on Sunday.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

The Los Angeles Lakers are dealing with several key injuries ahead of their matchup against the New York Knicks. LeBron James and Maxi Kleber are listed as questionable, while Deandre Ayton has been cleared to play. Additionally, Bronny James and Adou Thiero are currently with the South Bay Lakers in the G League.

Why it matters

The Lakers are looking to build momentum after a bounce-back win against the Indiana Pacers, but injuries to key players like LeBron James could hinder their chances against the Eastern Conference-leading Knicks. Ayton's availability is a positive sign for the Lakers, but the status of James and Kleber will be crucial in determining the outcome of the game.

The details

The Lakers announced that LeBron James and Maxi Kleber are listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Knicks. However, Deandre Ayton, who was previously on the injury report, has been cleared to play. Additionally, the team revealed that Bronny James and Adou Thiero are currently with the South Bay Lakers in the G League.

  • The Lakers' injury report was released on Saturday, March 8, 2026.

The players

LeBron James

A veteran NBA player and one of the Lakers' key players.

Deandre Ayton

A center for the Lakers who has been cleared to play against the Knicks.

Maxi Kleber

A Lakers player who is listed as questionable for the game against the Knicks.

Bronny James

LeBron James' son, who is currently playing for the South Bay Lakers in the G League.

Adou Thiero

A player for the South Bay Lakers in the G League.

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What they’re saying

“Deandre Ayton is off the injury report. LeBron James and Maxi Kleber are QUESTIONABLE for tomorrow's game against the Knicks”

— Ryan Ward, Sports Reporter (Twitter)

What’s next

The Lakers will need to monitor the status of LeBron James and Maxi Kleber leading up to the game against the Knicks on Sunday. Deandre Ayton's availability is a positive sign, but the team's performance will largely depend on the health of their key players.

The takeaway

The Lakers' injury concerns heading into the matchup against the Knicks highlight the challenges they face in maintaining a healthy roster. While Deandre Ayton's return is a boost, the status of LeBron James and Maxi Kleber will be crucial in determining the team's chances of securing a win against the Eastern Conference leaders.