LeBron James to switch from black mask to clearer version to comply with NBA

LeBron James is averaging 27 points per game this season on 57.9 percent shooting. (Robert Duyos/Getty Images)

LeBron James' brief stint as a pseudo-superhero is over.

James, who broke his nose last week, will trade his black protective mask for a clearer version for Saturday night's game against the Magic, head coach Erik Spoelstra said at the team's morning shootaround, according to ESPN.com's Michael Wallace.

James will pick from a variety of league-approved masks to wear the next few weeks, but Spoelstra didn't say what style or color the new one will be.

"We've had numerous ones made, so he will have his pick and will choose one that is authorized also by the league," Spoelstra said. "We did talk to the league [Friday]. So stay tuned for what mask you'll see tonight."

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James acknowledged after Thursday's win over the Knicks that he didn't seek league approval for the black design.

A spokesperson for the league said in an email to ESPN.com during Thursday's game that he didn't foresee any issues with James' mask but that apparently changed.

Writes Wallace, "A source close to James told ESPN.com on Friday night that the four-time league MVP would appeal the NBA's decision.

"But the two sides have agreed to compromise on a look that would be comfortable for James and also fall in line with more traditional versions of protective masks that have been worn by other players throughout the league."

James scored 31 points on Thursday in his first game with the mask. He was 13-for-19 from the field.

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