A Lakers season that was already unhealthy acquired worse on Saturday, because the crew introduced star attraction LeBron James would sit out its remaining six video games to nurse a strained groin harm.

Already eradicated from the playoffs and beset by accidents to different key gamers, the Lakers now head into an low season during which Coach Luke Walton can also be anticipated to depart.

“After consulting with our team doctors and medical staff, we have decided to hold LeBron out of games for the remainder of the season,” learn a press release from Lakers president Magic Johnson and normal supervisor Rob Pelinka. “This decision will allow his groin to fully heal, and is best for the future success of both LeBron and the Lakers.”

James is age 34, already outdated by National Basketball Assn. requirements, however was anticipated to revitalize a Lakers crew that had seen little success in recent times. Surrounded by veterans he recruited and a younger core, it was anticipated that James’s first season with the crew would mark a return to glory.

On sheer numbers, James had a nice season, averaging 27.four factors, 8.5 rebounds and eight.three assists in 55 video games. But his lobbying for an Anthony Davis commerce at mid-season didn’t sit properly inside the crew, and as accidents to others mounted, the Lakers fell additional down.

The harm that may hold LeBron out initially occurred on Christmas Day, which led to a 17-game absence. The 55 video games performed are the least he performed in a single season.