Is LeBron James playing tonight vs the Los Angeles Clippers? Latest update on the Los Angeles Lakers star's injury report (January 22, 2026)

The Lakers and Clippers meet again on January 22, 2026, in another game that matters more than the standings suggest. These teams know each other well, and the season series is already split.

This one helps decide who has the upper hand in Los Angeles, at least for now.The biggest update going into the game is straightforward. LeBron James is playing. He is healthy, available, and expected to take on his usual role in a matchup that often brings out his best.

LeBron James Injury Report vs Los Angeles Clippers (January 22, 2026)

LeBron James is not listed on the Lakers’ injury report. That confirms his full availability against the Clippers. He scored 19 points in the previous game against Denver.

It was not a high-volume night, but there were no signs of discomfort or restriction.

Through 25 games this season, James is averaging 22 points, seven assists, and six rebounds. At 41, his consistency has been important for a Lakers team that has dealt with lineup changes and injuries around him.

Where the Los Angeles Lakers Stand

The Los Angeles Lakers come into this game in an uneven stretch, but their top-end talent keeps them competitive. Luka Doncic has carried a heavy load recently, including a 38-point triple-double against Denver.

His partnership with James has become the foundation of the offense.LeBron James has also been reliable against the Clippers. He scored 36 points in their last meeting and has averaged 26.4 points over the past five games between these teams. With both sides winning once already this season, this game serves as a tiebreaker in more ways than one.

Injury Situation for Both Teams (January 22, 2026)

Los Angeles Lakers will be without Austin Reaves, who is out with a calf injury, and Ad Thiero, sidelined due to a CL sprain.

Those absences shorten the rotation but do not change the team’s main approach.The Clippers are more heavily affected. Bojan Bogdanovic is out with a hamstring injury. Derrick Jones Jr. is sidelined with a CL sprain. Kawhi Leonard will miss the game due to a knee contusion. Bradley Beal remains out for the season. That list removes multiple defensive options and shot creators.

What Decides the Game

Without Leonard, the Clippers will have fewer answers for James in half-court situations. Expect the Lakers to lean on him and Doncic to control the pace, create shots, and exploit mismatches.Also read: Los Angeles Lakers vs Los Angeles Clippers injury report: Injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (January 22, 2026)Health favors the Lakers. The rivalry ensures the effort will be there on both sides and execution will decide the result.