No. 1 goal is that he is healthy for the long haul – Frank Vogel gives update on LeBron James’ fitness

LA Lakers head coach Frank Vogel has given a crucial update on LeBron James’ injury before their Wednesday night match against Portland Trail Blazers. James has swelling in his left knee and Vogel had earlier revealed he will not play till the swelling comes down.

The chief coach said that James is not going to play against Portland Trail Blazers as he is still recovering. Vogel added that the goal is to have a healthy James for the long haul.

Vogel said: “Still working on trying to get the swelling down. He’s listed as doubtful for tomorrow. He is not here today. He got treatment outside of our facility today and will be listed as doubtful tomorrow.”

He added, “The no. 1 goal is that he is healthy for the long haul. Everything else is less important after that. What we have to do is we have to win games when he is out. That’s what it comes down to. We have enough. We have been close last couple of [games], haven’t gotten over the hump. We got to get back home and put together some wins till he returns.”

Meanwhile, the Lakers have a terrible record without LeBron James. The Lakers have lost their last three matches as James has not being part of the team and thus currently have a 24-27 record.

In fact, James has missed 15 matches in the ongoing season and the Lakers have a 5-10 record without their star player. James has been in sublime form and he is often the lone warrior for his team as he has been averaging 29.1 ppg in the ongoing season, which is the joint second highest in NBA 2021-22.

LA Lakers have slipped to ninth place in the Western Conference standings and they will need to turn the tables until James makes his return.