LOS ANGELES -- Lakers star LeBron James has been ruled out for Saturday's game against the Indiana Pacers due to left ankle soreness, according to the team's announcement. Newly acquired superstar Luka Doncic will also miss the game because of a left calf strain. Doncic is targeted to make his Lakers debut on Monday against the Utah Jazz, as confirmed by a source close to the matter. Additionally, center Mark Williams, acquired from the Charlotte Hornets, was ruled out as well, with coach JJ Redick noting that the trade is still pending. This marks James' fourth missed game of the season, during which he's averaged 24.5 points on 51.6 percent shooting, alongside 9.0 assists and 7.8 rebounds. He recently had a standout performance with a season-high 42 points and 17 rebounds against the Golden State Warriors. The Lakers are currently on a four-game winning streak, holding the fifth position in the Western Conference standings. Meanwhile, Indiana has triumphed in seven of its last ten games, ranking fourth in the Eastern Conference after a recent win over the LA Clippers. All eyes are now on the potential debut of Luka Doncic, following a surprising trade that sent him to the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis. Should Doncic officially return on Monday, Lakers fans can expect an exciting matchup ahead.
