According to Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times, Lakers star LeBron James received treatment on his ankle ahead of the All-Star Weekend and is expected to continue receiving treatment in the coming days.

James indicated that the ankle injury may sideline him for Thursday’s game against the Golden State Warriors. Despite being one of the oldest players in the league, James has only missed seven games all year. However, the ankle injury forced him to sit out the Lakers’ final game before the All-Star break against the Utah Jazz.

During his media availability on Sunday, James mentioned, “I won’t be playing the entire game tonight for sure,” as reported by Rachel Nichols. He initially injured his ankle in December and has been managing it since then.

Despite the injury, James made his 20th All-Star Game appearance in 21 years, averaging 24.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game this season. He played limited minutes in the All-Star Game, contributing eight points, four rebounds, and three assists.

Regarding his injury, James stated, “Trying to get my ankle as strong and back to where I feel confident that I can finish off this last third of the season. I won’t be playing the entire game tonight, for sure. I can get out there and run around with the young guys for a little bit and then shut it down at some point to give my body, and my ankle more importantly, another opportunity to rest.”

With a record of 30-26, the Lakers currently sit in ninth place in the Western Conference standings and are on track to participate in the play-in tournament for the third time in four years. Despite his injury, James has maintained impressive averages of 24.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 7.8 assists this season.