KEY POINTS

  • LeBron James vows to deliver another NBA title to Los Angeles
  • The Lakers could get a chance to finish at No. 6 f if they win their last two games
  • Despite the rocky season, James remains hopeful for a back-to-back title run

The Los Angeles Lakers await their fate although getting into the NBA playoffs via the play-in tournament looms.

Even if the franchise is struggling in the final stretch of the regular season, the four-time NBA champion gave a daunting statement, vowing that he will deliver another NBA title to Hollywood.

James made the bold claim on his Twitter account, regardless if the Lakers are in dire straits right now.

"The King" remains sidelined after re-injuring his ankle but is expected to return soon.

He skipped their game against the Houston Rockets, a match that they won 124-122. Their remaining two assignments will be against the Indiana Pacers and New Orleans Pelicans.

James put up the tweet not long after the Lakers unveiled the franchise 17th NBA championship banner at the Staples Center, ESPN reported.

"We had our ring night; we wanted you guys there, but we wanted to make sure we saved the banner for y'all,” James stated. "So, we love you guys, and the road to back-to-back starts in about a week. So, let's get going."

The victory over the hard-luck Rockets meant the Lakers remains in contention for the sixth-seed, one that would save them the trouble of being relegated to the play-in tournament.

For that to happen, the Lakers need to win their last two games with the rest out of their hands.

A wild scenario where the Portland Trail Blazers and Dallas Mavericks lose their last two games could even push Los Angeles to the fifth spot.

Regardless, the 36-year-old Lakers star seems unfazed about those conditions.

LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers
LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers Getty Images | Patrick Smith

For now, Los Angeles is focused on their remaining two games. Head coach Frank Vogel could have a full lineup when they face the Pacers on Saturday, just the second time this 2020-21 season.

Should the Lakers be relegated to the play-in tournament, they would face the Golden State Warriors and take the long route to the playoffs.

James and Anthony Davis are unlikely to be in 100% condition for the rest of the way, and they face tall odds against a competitive Western Conference.

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