Lakers Rumors: LeBron James Aiming to Return from Ankle Injury Next Week

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James is "aiming" to return from his ankle injury at some point next week, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium:

Charania noted James could return to action as soon as Tuesday (against the New York Knicks) or Wednesday (against the Houston Rockets).

The 36-year-old missed 20 games due to a high ankle sprain he suffered in the March 20 loss to the Atlanta Hawks and was sidelined again by the injury just days after his return. The news came as the Lakers were fighting to keep themselves out of the play-in tournament a season after claiming the NBA title. 

The Lakers are tied with the Dallas Mavericks at 37-28 for fifth place in the Western Conference, with the Portland Trail Blazers (37-29) just a half-game back.

James is averaging 25.0 points, 7.9 rebounds and 7.8 assists through 43 games this season. 

While the four-time MVP is sidelined, Anthony Davis will be charged with leading the offense now that he is healthy, and Kyle Kuzma and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope should be able to help keep the team afloat.

However, it's likely that any deep run into the postseason will depend on James being at the forefront for the Lakers.