Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

LeBron James sending a message by sitting out Celtics game

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 2/1/24

LeBron James will not participate in Thursday's game against the Boston Celtics. The 39-year-old superstar was downgraded by the team just five hours before tipoff. James usually finds additional motivation to perform at an elite level when playing in the TD Garden.

When speaking on ESPN's "NBA Today," Kendrick Perkins postulated that James is sending a message to the front office.

"Woj said two beat-up superstars, but he didn't say physically," Perkins said. "Two beat-up superstars, mentally. And this is a statement to the front office, Rob Pelinka and Jeanie Buss. And this is the attitude that we get from LeBron James as we get closer to the trade deadline. This is a normal thing. And I'm not saying that he sits out, but at the end of the day we've been getting the tweeds."

LeBron and AD are out tonight vs. the Celtics.

Are they sending a message or taking necessary recovery time? @kendrickperkins | @chiney pic.twitter.com/X4QsI0QI3l
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) February 1, 2024

Sitting out of arguably the biggest game of the regular season will certainly raise some eyebrows. Fans from across the league will likely be disgruntled at James not being available for a game that always produces must-see moments. However, if he is sitting in protest of the Lakers' malaise, the front office will have no choice but to take notice.

The Lakers haven't been a dominant force this season despite having a similar roster to the one that went to the Western Conference Finals just six months ago. There appears to be a disconnect between Darvin Ham and his core rotation. There's a lack of execution on both sides of the floor.

Pelinka is rumored to be actively seeking upgrades ahead of the Feb. 8 trade deadline.

LeBron is known for his incredibly high standards. He's also proved that he's not afraid to put pressure on the front office when things aren't working. However, the Lakers need to keep one eye on the future. It's one thing to give in to 28-year-old LeBron. It's another to risk the future for a star who could retire soon.

Unless he is legitimately injured, LeBron shouldn't have chosen the Celtics game to rest. There's too much media spotlight. His absence will be amplified. That's why it feels like this decision is a clear message. LeBron wants some fresh talent on the Lakers. He wants help. Most importantly, he wants to compete.

Now, the front office has to take action. The Lakers have to make a move. What that move will be, though, is anybody's guess.

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