LeBron James is preparing to resume contact basketball drills and is scheduled for another medical check-up by Los Angeles Lakers doctors within the next week or two as he gears up for his historic 23rd NBA season. Early in training camp, James missed time due to sciatica, a nerve condition affecting his lower body, and has yet to participate in any games or practices with the Lakers this year. The next phase in his recovery involves participating in 5-on-5 practice sessions, although the timing remains uncertain since the Lakers are set to begin a five-game road trip starting Saturday in Atlanta, a trip James is not expected to join.
At 40 years old, James has been conducting solo training sessions in recent weeks. The Lakers disclosed James’ return to basketball activities on Thursday, just four weeks after initially announcing he would undergo a reevaluation in three to four weeks. Lakers coach JJ Redick recently commented that there is no specific target date for James’ full return, expressing hope that he will resume playing sometime in the second or third week of November.
If James desires on-court practice during the Lakers’ road games, he might practice with the Lakers’ G League affiliate at their El Segundo training facility. The Lakers’ next home game is scheduled for November 18. Despite James being absent, the Lakers have shown impressive performance, fueling hopes that they could become title contenders again, six seasons after James and Anthony Davis captured the franchise’s 17th championship in the Florida bubble.
On Wednesday night, the Lakers secured a 118-116 win over the San Antonio Spurs, marking their fifth consecutive victory and fourth straight at home. Luka Doncic led the scoring with 35 points. The Lakers boast a 7-2 record even with James sidelined and key players Doncic and Austin Reeves missing significant time due to injuries and rest.
Reported by Associated Press.
Fan Take: LeBron’s impending return is a huge boost for the Lakers and the NBA, as his legendary career continues to redefine longevity in basketball. Fans should be excited because his presence could elevate the league’s competitiveness and inspire a new generation of players aiming for long-lasting success.
