Lakers get positive LeBron James injury update as return nears

Lakers Receive Positive Injury Update on LeBron James

ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania shared insights into LeBron James’ recovery as the Los Angeles Lakers prepare for his near return. The 40-year-old forward has not appeared this season due to sciatica affecting his right side but is approaching a comeback with a careful approach as he aims for a historic 23rd NBA season.

While James recovers, the Lakers have maintained solid performances on the court without their all-time leading scorer. The team and fans now anticipate his return to live gameplay soon.

Next Step: 5-on-5 Workout

Charania revealed on ESPN's NBA Today that James has been training solo and the next phase involves participating in full 5-on-5 live scrimmages.

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

However, LeBron will not join the Lakers on their upcoming five-game road trip starting in Atlanta, making the timing of his live game action uncertain. Options include practicing with the G League South Bay team or waiting for the Lakers to return home on November 16 to begin the live play process.

Timeline Remains Uncertain

“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 exact schedule for LeBron’s return to full team play is still undetermined as he continues his recovery.

Summary

LeBron James is progressing well in his rehab and preparing for 5-on-5 workouts, but a definite timeline for his full return to Lakers’ games remains unclear.

Author's summary: LeBron James is steadily advancing in his recovery with 5-on-5 live workouts next, yet the exact timing for his Lakers comeback is still uncertain.

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Newsweek Newsweek — 2025-11-06