Lakers get positive LeBron James injury update as return nears

Lakers Receive Positive Injury Update on LeBron James

ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania shared the latest on Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James as he prepares for a return this season. The 40-year-old forward has yet to play due to a right-side sciatica injury but is taking a cautious approach as he approaches his 23rd NBA season.

Despite James' absence, the Lakers have performed well, maintaining a strong position in the league. However, fans and the team are eagerly awaiting his comeback.

Next Steps for LeBron James

During an appearance on ESPN's NBA Today, Charania outlined the upcoming stages for James’ return. The immediate focus is moving into 5-on-5 live play:

"LeBron James has been working out individually, and I'm told that the next step for him is 5-on-5 live play," Charania said.

Charania added that James will not be traveling with the team on their five-game road trip starting in Atlanta. The timing for his live gameplay remains uncertain and may involve working with the G League South Bay team or waiting until the Lakers return on November 16 to begin the live play process.

"So, it's unclear when he will be able to get that live action while the team is on the road, potentially doing it with the G League South Bay team or do the Lakers and LeBron wait for the team to get back on November 16 and then the live play process can begin then."

The timeline for this 5-on-5 return is still being determined as James continues his recovery.

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Summary: LeBron James edges closer to a comeback with 5-on-5 workouts planned, though exact timing depends on his recovery and team schedule, signaling hope for the Lakers’ season.

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Newsweek Newsweek — 2025-11-06