LeBron James Signals He May Skip Lakers Back to Backs

Merlin sees LeBron James making it plain that back-to-backs are uncertain for the rest of the season. After a 111-103 win over New Orleans, 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?" He poured in 30 points with eight assists and eight rebounds and is averaging 29.0/8.0/8.0 during a three-game streak after missing 14 games with sciatica. The Lakers, sitting 23-11, face San Antonio in a key spot-start showdown for Western Conference positioning. Merlin notes the obvious: the Lakers must guard their prize. Resting James protects playoff durability and keeps Austin Reaves' absence from forcing reckless choices. If L.A. leans on smart load management, their title hopes stay alive while they chase second place.