Veteran analyst Skip Bayless expressed his disappointment over LeBron James’ absence as the Lakers suffered their 12th loss of the season on Friday. Despite delivering one of their best defensive performances of the year, the Lakers struggled mightily on offense, falling 97-87 to the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Target Center in Minneapolis.

LeBron missed his second consecutive game due to left foot soreness and his absence was especially noticeable on the offensive end. While the team listed LeBron on the injury report citing the foot issue, coach JJ Redick earlier revealed that the four-time NBA champion had also been excused from practice for “personal reasons.”

Following the Lakers’ latest loss, Skip Bayless issued an urgent plea to LeBron, calling on him to end his “personal time” and return to the court to help the team bounce back from their struggles.

“Come back soon, LeBron … from Germany or wherever you’ve gone during your “personal time” off. Lakers lose at Minnesota, need a refortified you,” Skip tweeted.

LeBron James last took the court during the Lakers’ 134-132 overtime loss to the Atlanta Hawks on December 6. The four-time league MVP delivered a sensational performance, showcasing his trademark determination, but his heroic efforts ultimately fell short as the Purple and Gold were unable to seal the victory.

The 20-time All-Star posted a remarkable triple-double, finishing the game with 39 points, 10 rebounds and 11 assists in an exhausting 43 minutes of action.

LeBron James in 2024-25 season

In his 22nd NBA season, LeBron James has showcased moments of brilliance but has also experienced stretches of inconsistency. The Lakers’ superstar appeared in the first 23 games of the season before missing the last two.

While LeBron is averaging the fewest points since his rookie year, he continues to make significant contributions across the board for the Purple and Gold. This season, the former Miami Heat superstar is averaging 23.0 points, 8.0 rebounds and 9.1 assists per game, shooting an efficient 49.5% from the field, including 35.9% from beyond the arc.

As of now, there is no clear timeline for LeBron’s return. When asked about the potential comeback of his star player before the game against the Timberwolves, coach JJ Redick gave a straightforward response: “No.”

The Lakers will look to bounce back when they face the high-flying Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday.