Lakers' LeBron James Talks Approach to Back-to-Backs, Cites Historic NBA Career

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James made it clear Tuesday that there is no guarantee he will play in back-to-back games at any point this season.

Speaking to reporters after the Lakers' 111-103 win over the New Orleans Pelicans, James said, "Every back-to-back for the rest of the season is TBD. I am 41. I got the most minutes in NBA history. Bank it right now, okay?"

Lakers head coach JJ Redick told reporters Wednesday that the hope is that James will be able to play both legs of back-to-backs at some point this season. His comments came after James was ruled out for Wednesday's matchup against the San Antonio Spurs

LeBron tied with Luka Dončić for the team lead in scoring on Tuesday with 30 points on 10-of-19 shooting to go along with eight assists and eight rebounds.

After missing the first 14 games of the season due to sciatica and then easing his way back in, James seems to be hitting his stride as of late.

Playing in his 23rd NBA season, James is averaging 29.0 points, 8.0 assists and 8.0 rebounds per contest during the Lakers' three-game winning streak, which is of particular importance due to the absence of the injured Austin Reaves.

However, given that James is the oldest player in the NBA, the Lakers have to be smart about when and how they use him since they undoubtedly want him to be healthy and at his best come playoff time.

Lakers-Pelicans Full Highlights

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LeBron has yet to play in back-to-back games this season, which suggests he may not be available Wednesday when the Lakers face the San Antonio Spurs.

It is an important game since the 23-11 Lakers are just one game behind the Spurs for second place in the Western Conference, but that doesn't mean L.A. should or will press the issue.

Win or lose, the Lakers have the makings of a contender in the Western Conference, and having the core of James, Dončić and Reaves healthy for the playoffs represents their best chance of vying for a championship.