James Makes History Again! Possible Return of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves in Game 7 Against Rockets

The playoffs are routine for James. By participating this year, he will tie Karl Malone and John Stockton, making his 19th playoff appearance and tying for the top spot in league history.

However, the 41-year-old James is looking forward to a new experience this spring: playing alongside his 21-year-old son, Bronny. The James father-son duo will become the first pair in NBA history to play together in a playoff game.

James said after today's practice: "Being on the court with him is the best thing that has happened in my career, surpassing all my achievements. In fact, he has put himself in a position to be called upon in a playoff game, which is incredible and really cool considering what he has gone through in recent years."

"He earned this opportunity, he deserves it, and he will be ready."

This Lakers sophomore guard entered JJ Redick's rotation late in the season. In the Lakers' final six games, Bronny averaged 17.2 minutes, 7.2 points, shooting 47.2% from the field and 42.9% from three-point range, along with 1.8 assists and 1.0 rebounds.

Bronny said today: "I mean, this is what I wanted, my dream is to play in the playoffs. I didn't get to play last March, and now this is a bigger stage than that. I am completely, utterly excited to go out there with my teammates."

Bronny also talked about playing alongside James in the playoffs: "It's crazy. I mean, I've literally witnessed his entire career. Now I'm part of it too, so it's a great experience, I'm grateful. But I also have to do my job, I have to focus on my responsibilities."

Although he appeared in two playoff games against the Timberwolves last season, he only played a total of four minutes at the end of Game 1 and Game 3, when the Lakers were already trailing significantly and defeat was inevitable.

This season, Bronny averaged 2.9 points, shooting 40.9% from the field and 38.6% from three-point range, along with 1.2 assists. Last season, he averaged 2.3 points, shooting 31.3% from the field and 28.1% from three-point range, along with 0.8 assists.

James stated that the Lakers' preparation for this playoff series has been excellent—though his voice was hoarse when speaking to reporters, having just recovered from a cold.

James said: "For me, nothing changes from the regular season to the playoffs, except the focus intensifies. The only thing that changes in the playoffs is that you know you'll play at least four games against the same team—so you have to focus on them, understand their tendencies more deeply, and be more detailed."

James' preparation sets an example for his son and the entire team.

"I don't even know how many playoffs he has played," Bronny said. "So, he has won series, won championships. I think we need to keep an open mind, listen carefully to what he says, because he knows the most. He says it all just to win. So, he will help us do that, we just need to follow his guidance."

During the interview, James' voice was noticeably hoarse, and he said he had been feeling unwell. However, it is reported that the Lakers have completed three very high-quality practices. The focus of training was on defensive rebounding, controlling turnovers, and handling high-pressure defense. The Lakers are also preparing with a "no one believes in us" fighting spirit.

Lakers beat reporter Dave McMenamin reported, citing sources, that the Lakers expect neither Luka Doncic nor Austin Reaves to return for the first round of the playoffs. However, if the series extends longer, it is possible that one or both could return.

Extend the series to Game 6 or Game 7, welcoming the return of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves?