LeBron James looking on.LeBron James (Photo via @HaterReport_ Twitter)
NBA fans are accusing Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James of “faking” an injury after a video surfaced of him limping, following the club’s stunning first-round exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Bolstered by the shocking blockbuster trade for Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic, LeBron James and the Lakers entered the postseason as one of the favorites to win the 2025 NBA championship.

But the Timberwolves outclassed the Lakers from start to finish, needing just five games to eliminate the Purple and Gold in round one. With the loss, the Lakers have now failed to advance to the second round for the fourth time in five years since winning it all in the 2020 Orlando bubble.

After the Lakers’ loss, a video emerged of LeBron James walking around with a noticeable limp. On Friday, news broke that the 40-year-old James had suffered a Grade 2 MCL in the Game 5 loss, meaning he would have missed significant time if LA advanced to the second round:

Some fans, however, are convinced that James decided to “fake” the injury after the Lakers were eliminated:

 

“Dawg LeBron pretending to be hurt since the Lakers lost in the 1st round 😭😭,” one fan wrote.

“My spine was broken the whole playoffs” -LeCap-,” joked another.

“I’m so tired of this dude. And I don’t even watch NBA basketball,” said a user.

“Imagine jordan doing this after he lost to pistons,” wrote a fan.

“Dude should hang up the cleats, job well done,” said another.

“He’s turned so unlikable over the years,” a fan said.

When you’re successful like LeBron James, haters and critics will always find a way to try and knock you down. Obviously, the four-time NBA champion isn’t faking an MCL sprain.

LeBron James Hasn’t Decided On His Future

LeBron James Might Leave The Los Angeles LakersLeBron James (Photo by Jesse Johnson/Imagn Images)
After the Lakers’ disappointing first-round exit, James told reporters on Wednesday that he’s unsure of his future, and that he’ll discuss it with his family and close ones.

The future Hall of Famer remains elite at the age of 40, having averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists per game. Despite his age, it’d be stunning if James opted to retire when he can still produce, especially with the opportunity to play a full season with Luka Doncic lying in front of him.