Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James vs the Toronto Raptors (Image via Getty) LeBron James will play when the Los Angeles Lakers take on the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. The latest injury report lists him as available, and he is expected to start at Barclays Center. No new injuries have been reported before the game.James, now 41, continues to carry a large role for the Lakers. After dealing with health issues earlier in the season, his availability gives the team needed structure on offense and experience on the floor.
LeBron James’ injury report vs Brooklyn Nets (February 3, 2026)
The Los Angeles Lakers do not list James as questionable, doubtful, or out. He is coming off a 35-minute performance in Sunday’s 112-100 loss to the New York Knicks, finishing with 22 points, six assists, and five rebounds.There is no confirmed minutes limit for this game. Still, the coaching staff is expected to keep an eye on his workload. If the score stays close, he should play around 32 to 35 minutes and continue to lead the offense.
Why LeBron’s status was uncertain earlier this season
LeBron James missed 14 games earlier in the 2025-26 season because of right-side sciatica and arthritis in his left foot joint. Those issues also kept him out of the preseason and the opening stretch of the schedule.Because of that, the Lakers often listed him as questionable, especially during back-to-back games. He also missed a January matchup against the San Antonio Spurs for the same reason.Recent updates suggest he is close to full strength. The foot arthritis is being handled through load management rather than regular absences. As a result, the team now treats him as available most nights unless something changes during shootaround or warmups.
What his availability means for the game
With LeBron James active, the Lakers are expected to lean on him and Luka Dončić to guide the offense, which has been uneven at times this season.The Nets are dealing with injuries as well. Haywood Highsmith is out with a knee injury, while Noah Clowney and Ziaire Williams are listed as probable. The Los Angeles Lakers may try to push the pace and use James’ passing against a thinner Brooklyn frontcourt.His presence also matters if Austin Reaves, who is questionable with a calf issue, or Bronny James, who is dealing with a leg problem, cannot play full minutes.
How to confirm before tip-off
The Lakers have made late decisions on James before, so checking his status closer to game time is still a good idea. The NBA’s official injury report and updates from team reporters usually confirm the final in/out list about 90 minutes before the game.Also read: Is Luka Doncic playing tonight vs the Brooklyn Nets? Latest update on the Los Angeles Lakers star’s injury report (February 3, 2026)As of February 3, 2026, LeBron James is expected to play against the Nets. His earlier injuries led to some uncertainty this season, but he is currently cleared and likely to handle his normal workload. Even in his 23rd NBA season, he remains central to how the Lakers operate.