Lakers Star LeBron James Sidelined with Elbow Injury

41-year-old forward to miss game against Pacers after suffering contusion in loss to Nuggets

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James will sit out Friday night's game against the Indiana Pacers due to a left elbow contusion he suffered in the fourth quarter of Thursday's loss to the Denver Nuggets. James briefly returned to the game after the injury but departed in the final minute, saying his elbow was "pretty sore." The 41-year-old forward also continues to manage left foot arthritis.

Why it matters

James' health is crucial for the Lakers' playoff hopes, as the team is currently 11th in the Western Conference standings. Any extended absence could significantly impact their postseason chances. The injury also comes as James recently set the NBA record for most career field goals, passing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

The details

In Thursday's loss to the Nuggets, James fell hard to the court after driving to the hoop in the fourth quarter, suffering the left elbow contusion. He briefly returned to the game before leaving again in the final minute. Lakers center Deandre Ayton also suffered a left knee injury in the first quarter of that game and will miss Friday's matchup against the Pacers.

  • On March 6, 2026, James suffered the left elbow contusion in the fourth quarter of the Lakers' loss to the Nuggets.
  • James will miss the Lakers' game against the Pacers on March 7, 2026.

The players

LeBron James

A 41-year-old forward for the Los Angeles Lakers who recently set the NBA record for most career field goals, passing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

Deandre Ayton

The Lakers' center who also suffered a left knee injury in Thursday's loss to the Nuggets and will miss the game against the Pacers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Pretty sore right now ... day-to-day, we'll see what happens.”

— LeBron James (Field Level Media)

What’s next

The Lakers will provide an update on James' status ahead of their next game, which is scheduled for March 10 against the Golden State Warriors.

The takeaway

James' health remains a critical factor for the Lakers as they fight to climb the Western Conference standings and secure a playoff berth. Any extended absence due to this elbow injury could significantly impact their postseason chances.