“The most important is health”: LeBron James on missing Stephen Curry in Lakers’ win over Warriors

The Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors renewed one of the NBA’s most defining rivalries in a blockbuster showdown at the Crypto.com Arena during the 2025–26 National Basketball Association (NBA) season on Sunday, February 8 (Philippine Standard Time).

Despite playing on the road, the Lakers came away with a hard-earned 105–99 victory over the Warriors in a game that drew significant attention across the basketball world. The matchup was widely billed as another potential chapter in the storied on-court rivalry between LeBron James and Stephen Curry—two generational superstars whose battles have shaped an era of NBA basketball.

However, fans inside the Crypto.com Arena were left disappointed as Curry did not suit up for the contest, missing the game due to patellofemoral pain syndrome in his right knee. As a result, the highly anticipated LeBron-versus-Curry duel never materialized, underscoring how increasingly rare such matchups have become with both icons now approaching the twilight of their illustrious careers.

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LeBron James, nevertheless, delivered a composed and efficient performance, finishing with 20 points, seven rebounds, and 10 assists in 35 minutes of action. The 41-year-old continued to defy age, controlling the tempo of the game and providing leadership on both ends of the floor as the Lakers executed well down the stretch to secure the win.

LeBron James & Steph Curry having a chat after the game.

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— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) February 8, 2026

Following the game, James spoke candidly about missing the opportunity to face his longtime rival but emphasized that health remains the top priority at this stage of their careers.

“Oh, of course. The most important is health, obviously. Especially for the both of us, where we are in our career, so speedy recovery to Steph, we miss him out here,” LeBron said during his postgame media availability.

Notably, this marked the second meeting between the Lakers and Warriors this season, yet fans have still not seen James and Curry share the court. James was sidelined during their first encounter earlier in the campaign due to a sciatica-related illness, adding further intrigue to when—or if—the two legends will clash again before the season ends.

The victory proved significant for the Lakers’ playoff push, as it improved their record to 32–19 and solidified their position at fifth in the Western Conference standings. Meanwhile, the Warriors dropped to 28–25 and currently sit eighth, continuing their fight to stay within the playoff picture amid injuries and lineup adjustments.

As the NBA season progresses, anticipation remains high for another possible meeting between James and Curry—two players whose rivalry has delivered some of the league’s most memorable moments. Whether or not fans get another chance to see them go head-to-head, Sunday’s matchup served as a reminder of their enduring impact on the game and the importance of savoring every remaining chapter of their remarkable careers.

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