Is LeBron James playing tonight vs the San Antonio Spurs? Latest update on the Los Angeles Lakers star's injury report (January 7, 2026)

The Los Angeles Lakers enter their January 7 game against the San Antonio Spurs without clarity on whether LeBron James would play. He is listed as questionable because of left foot joint arthritis and right-sided sciatica. The game came on the second night of a back-to-back, which added to the uncertainty.James has played heavy minutes the night before in New Orleans. He finished with 30 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists in a 111-103 win over the Pelicans. After that game, he said every back-to-back for the rest of the season would be a game-time decision, pointing to his age and workload.LeBron James’ name has appeared often on the injury report this season as the Lakers manage his minutes. The rest of the roster is also thin. Gabe Vincent is listed as questionable with a back issue. Rui Hachimura is out with a calf injury. Austin Reaves will miss the game due to a gastrocnemius strain, and Adou Thiero remains sidelined with an MCL sprain.The Spurs have their own concerns. Victor Wembanyama is also questionable after recently returning from injury. Devin Vassell will not play because of a left abductor strain. Both teams wait until close to tip-off for final updates.The Los Angeles Lakers come in with a 23-11 record and were riding a three-game winning streak. San Antonio stands at 25-11 and had been strong at home. This is the third meeting between the teams this season. The Spurs won the previous matchup, a 132-119 NBA Cup quarterfinal, led by a 30-point night from Stephon Castle.Los Angeles lean on Luka Doncic to carry the offense, while San Antonio’s attack center on Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox. Betting lines reflect the uncertainty around both stars, with the Spurs favored by 7.5 points and a total set at 236.5.If LeBron James does not play, the scoring and playmaking load will shift almost entirely to Dončić, who is averaging 33.5 points per game. The Lakers’ lack of depth make James’ status critical. San Antonio’s home court and healthier rotation gives them a clear edge if Los Angeles is without its veteran leader.