Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James vs the Toronto Raptors (Image via Getty). The Los Angeles Lakers are bracing for another high-stakes Eastern Conference showdown as they continue their road stretch, but all eyes are on the availability of LeBron James. With the team coming off a 126-105 loss to the Boston Celtics, the uncertainty surrounding their 40-year-old leader heightens the tension ahead of their clash with the Philadelphia 76ers. For a Lakers squad sitting at an impressive 16-6, getting James back on the court could be critical to regaining momentum.The matchup itself comes layered with storylines, Philadelphia enters at 13-9 and pushing for a fourth straight victory, while the Lakers aim to show resilience despite a wave of injuries. The contest at Xfinity Mobile Arena promises playoff-level energy long before the postseason begins.
LeBron James’ Injury Report vs Philadelphia 76ers (December 7, 2025)
Lebron James has officially been upgraded to probable after managing right sciatica and left foot joint arthritis, conditions that already cost him 14 early-season games. The left foot issue resurfaced recently, keeping him out of the Celtics matchup and raising his season absences to 16. Initially listed as questionable, the shift to probable indicates encouraging signs from the Lakers’ medical staff as load management remains a priority in his 23rd NBA campaign. Though banged up, James has long thrived in adversity, and Lakers fans expect him to push through once again.
Full Breakdown of the Los Angeles Lakers’ Injury Situation
PlayerStatusInjury/Reason Luka Dončić Available Personal (resolved) LeBron James Questionable/Probable Sciatica, foot arthritis Marcus Smart Out Left lumbar strainLuka Doncic’s return after two missed games provides an immediate offensive lift, especially with his backcourt chemistry alongside Austin Reaves. Meanwhile, Smart remains sidelined, removing a key defensive anchorm, an absence that has statistically increased the Lakers’ points allowed. Should James be held out as a precaution, the expected lineup would include Doncic, Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Jake LaRavia, and DeAndre Ayton.
Sixers Enter With Their Own Uncertainty
Philadelphia’s injury report also carries significant weight. Both Joel Embiid and Paul George are questionable with knee issues, while Kelly Oubre Jr. and Trendon Watford remain out. If their stars sit, Tyrese Maxey will quarterback a youthful rotation supported by Quentin Grimes and rookie VJ Edgecombe. Historically, James has dominated the Sixers with 27.2 points per game and a 40-18 career record, yet the Lakers are winless in Philadelphia during his tenure (0-6), a stat that adds intrigue to the matchup.Also read: Is Luka Doncic playing tonight vs the Philadelphia 76ers? Latest update on the Los Angeles Lakers star’s injury report (December 7, 2025)Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. ET on Spectrum SportsNet, NBC Sports Philadelphia, or NBA League Pass, where a potential James–Doncic pairing could ignite one of December’s most compelling battles.