The Los Angeles Lakers — fighting to stay in the Play-In game zone — received crucial updates to LeBron James and Anthony Davis, ahead of a key matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans, who are 1.5 games ahead of Los Angeles for the No. 9 seed in the Western Conference.

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Lakers could be getting both stars back for their home matchup with the Pelicans on Friday — the second leg of a home-road back-to-back. LeBron, who sprained his ankle vs. those same Pelicans in New Orleans on Sunday and missed Tuesday's loss at the Dallas Mavericks, flew home early to get extra treatment. (The Lakers visit the Utah Jazz on Thursday). LeBron will attempt to test out his ankle and is “hopeful” he can give it a go for Friday's rematch, per Woj.

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Meanwhile, Anthony Davis, who hasn't played since Feb. 16 due to a right mid-foot sprain, is expected to play vs. the Pelicans, as expected.

The Lakers have not provided any formal updates on LeBron or AD since releasing the injury report for the Jazz clash. (Wenyen Gabriel will play.)

The Pelicans have won both matchups with the Lakers this season. New Orleans walloped the Lakers by 28 points at Crypto.com Arena in late February. This past Sunday — in a game Russell Westbrook labeled a “must-win” — the Lakers blew a 23-point first-half lead and lost.

The Lakers (31-44) are 0.5 games up on the San Antonio Spurs (31-45) for the No. 10 seed and final Play-In spot, though the Spurs are healthier and have an easier schedule down the stretch.