Lakers News: LeBron James, Anthony Davis Still Injured, But LA Stays In Playoff Picture

With LeBron James and Anthony Davis continuing to miss games, the Los Angeles Lakers have managed to hold onto its playoff spot.

The Lakers on Tuesday picked up a key 101-93 victory over the Charlotte Hornets. Los Angeles improved its record to 34-21. The Lakers are the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference with 17 regular-season games left on the schedule.

Los Angeles is 2.5 games ahead of the No. 6 seed Portland Trail Blazers. The Lakers have a four-game lead on the No. 7 seed Dallas Mavericks. The team needs a top-six seed to stay in the playoff picture and avoid the play-in tournament.

The Lakers face a difficult upcoming schedule, set to face the Mavericks and No. 1 seed Utah Jazz in four of their next five games.

James went down with a high ankle sprain on March 20. The Lakers were defeated by the Atlanta Hawks in that contest to start a four-game losing streak. Los Angeles has rebounded with six wins in its last 10 games.

The Lakers are 6-6 since James was ruled out indefinitely with his injury.

It might not be too long before both stars are back in Los Angeles’ lineup. Davis will be re-evaluated before Thursday’s game against the Boston Celtics and could return within the next 7-10 days, according to ESPN. James is on track to return around the end of the month.

Los Angeles has kept its head above water by continuing to play strong defense. The Lakers rank second in the NBA and first in the West in points allowed per possession.

Free-agent addition Andre Drummond has at least 10 rebounds in four straight games. Kyle Kuzma is averaging 16.4 points per game in April.

The Lakers still have the best odds to win the Western Conference.