OAKLAND, Calif. — LeBron James hobbled off into the locker room in the third quarter with a strained left groin and was questionable to return against the Golden State Warriors.
James appeared to injure his groin as he was on the floor trying to secure the basketball and pass out a teammate while in an awkward position. He slowly got up and was able to get back on defense before stopping and not trying to go down the floor when play headed to the other side.
Replays showed him then reach and poke at his groin area, grimacing and mouthing the words, “I felt a pop.” He made his way to the sideline and tried to stretch it out but eventually left the floor for the locker room, limping as he strode to the tunnel.
James left the Christmas Day marquee game with the Lakers up 71-57 with 7:51 remaining in the third quarter. He was having his way with the Warriors at times during the first half and departed with 17 points, 13 rebounds and five assists.
Any long-term injury to James would be devastating to the Lakers. James came into the game averaging 27.6 points, 8.2 rebounds and 7.2 assists while playing in every game this season. He has played in 116 consecutive regular season games and 156 straight regular-season and postseason games.