LeBron James Injures Knee, Lakers Eliminated

LeBron James suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee after colliding with Donte DiVincenzo during the fourth quarter of Game 5 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, briefly leaving the court before returning to play. The Lakers lost the game 103-96, resulting in their elimination from the playoffs. ESPN's Dave McMenamin reported that the injury typically requires a three-to-five week recovery period, which would have sidelined James for subsequent playoff games had the Lakers advanced. This marks the first time in James' career that he faced the possibility of missing a playoff game due to injury. After the loss, James stated he will reflect on his future before deciding whether to return for a 23rd NBA season. The Timberwolves will now advance to play the winner of the Clippers vs. Nuggets series.