Frank Vogel’s update on LeBron James is great news for the Lakers

Los Angeles Lakers head coach Frank Vogel gave the best injury update yet on LeBron James heading into Game 2 against the Phoenix Suns.

The Lakers lost Game 1 despite an injury that essentially limited Suns point guard Chris Paul to one arm. Los Angeles needed more out of Anthony Davis, and his limited attempts in the paint were exactly what Phoenix and big man DeAndre Ayton were hoping for. AD played into their hand.

For the Lakers to reach their ultimate goal of back-to-back titles, they need Davis and LeBron James to play like the franchise cornerstones they claim to be. Both are coming off injury, so it’s easy to understand why that might be a tough assignment.

While Davis remains healthy, LeBron is also nearing a full bill of health, per Vogel.

“I’m moving forward as if he’s a healthy player,” Vogel said on Monday, per USA Today’s Mark Medina.

NBA Playoffs: What can Lakers take from Game 1 defeat to the Phoenix Suns?

The Lakers do need more out of James specifically, especially if he’s nearing full health. Yet, it’s Davis who hasn’t looked at all like his normal self in weeks. The Lakers playing Davis and Andre Drummond at the same time hasn’t worked, and the Suns took full advantage of that over the weekend.

Playing Davis more at the 5 could be an option, or staggering his minutes with Drummond. Miraculously enough, James was the only player with a positive +/- on Sunday, while Davis was a -18. Already a tough concept to grasp given they share the floor so often, it’s clear AD has something to prove, even if he won’t admit it.

Game 1 should serve as a wake-up call for the Lakers. With the right adjustments, and a healthier LeBron, don’t expect LA to stay down for long.