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A big news just dropped regarding LeBron James. After missing the Trail Blazers game on Dec 8, LeBron is set to miss the Timberwolves match-up on Friday as well. A prolonged rest was what JJ Redick wanted for his players and the 39-year-old is getting the fair share of it.

Shams Charania of ESPN recently reported, “Lakers star LeBron James is unlikely to play Friday versus Timberwolves. It would give James, who missed a Dec. 8 contest with foot soreness, eight days in between games if he returns Sunday against Memphis.”

Among all the myths in the NBA, one stood the test of time the most — player missing games if he is getting traded. For LeBron James, the same is happening. At least according to the fans.

Lakers nation react to LeBron James’ extended rest

“To the warriors confirmed,” a fan declared on X. Before any news surfaced on the matter, the fan jumped to the conclusion that LeBron’s absence could be a sign he might suit up in the Blue and Yellow jersey in the upcoming trade. There has been a lot of talk recently about his potential link-up with the San Francisco side. So, the first thought that crossed the fan’s mind was that something might be brewing.

ESPN story with @mcten: Lakers star LeBron James is unlikely to play Friday versus Timberwolves. It would give James, who missed a Dec. 8 contest with foot soreness, eight days in between games if he returns Sunday against Memphis. https://t.co/GbPI308meN

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 12, 2024

to the warriors confirmed

— PMM (@pmmbasketball) December 12, 2024

An astonished fan asked, “Is the ageless LeBron finally aging?” and added, “It’s crazy to see.” It sure is hard to wrap your head around the fact that the Chosen One is already in his 22nd NBA season and is set to turn 40 in just a couple of weeks. LeBron has played in 23 of 24 games this season, so taking a day off for his foot wasn’t unusual. He even showed up for Lakers practice on Wednesday, possibly to prepare for the game against the T’Wolves. However, he was later excused for some personal reasons.

“Foot soreness? Oh no.. it’s slowly happening..” another fan expressed concern about LeBron’s physical decline. It puts immense stress on the body to play at such an intense level, the kind that the 20-time All-Star does. The fan fears that it could be an early sign of LeBron’s body starting to wear down.

Foot soreness? Oh no.. it’s slowly happening..

— david (@Davethe_King1) December 12, 2024

Again that’s something natural as he has been at the top of his game for two decades in the league. No matter how hard it is for us to accept, there will be a day when King James hangs up his boots. However, this certainly doesn’t seem like the season he’ll call it quits. While he may not have massive numbers (23 PPG) to justify his superiority in the league, his averages of 8 rebounds and 9.1 assists are still impressive and show that he’s far from done.

A certified LeBron fan wrote, “Nooo hope my goat is good,” hoping that their idol is holding up well. There have been no words from the man himself yet. Had he been active on social media, we surely would have heard something from him.

Whereas, someone pointed out, “He also did this before a trade deadline with the cavs GM (griffin) at the time so he can make some moves we will see how Rob Pelinka Responds 👀.” Despite the Warriors showing interest in him last season, LeBron expressed that he would prefer to retire with the Lakers. However, uniting with Stephen Curry at this point could increase his chances of winning a fifth championship title. So that cannot be scratched.

Do you think this time off could indicate a slim possibility of an upcoming trade? Is age finally catching up to him, or does he simply need some extended rest to come back stronger? Share your thoughts below!