LeBron James Injury Update: Potential Timeline for Season Debut
LeBron James’s return to the Lakers is approaching as he recovers from sciatica at the start of his 23rd NBA season. Three weeks ago, ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania revealed that the Lakers aimed for a mid-November comeback.
As the Lakers get ready for a five-game road trip after their home game against the Spurs, Charania confirmed the timeline remains unchanged.
“I was told today that Lakers personnel are still operating under the belief LeBron James’s debut will be around mid-November,” Charania said on ESPN NBA Countdown Wednesday.
James is entering an unprecedented phase: turning 41 next month and playing his 23rd NBA season. Lakers’ general manager Rob Pelinka’s offseason signings of Jake LaRavia, Deandre Ayton, and Marcus Smart have reinforced the team's depth in LeBron’s absence, which has proven crucial.
The Lakers have started the season 6–2 without James, thanks to exceptional performances from Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. Dončić is averaging 41.3 points per game over four games, while Reaves is scoring 31.1 points across seven games.
Charania also mentioned that the next milestone in James’s recovery will be returning to five-on-five live practice. Currently, James won’t be traveling with the team.
Key Points
- LeBron James targets a mid-November return from sciatica.
- Lakers are 6–2 this season without him.
- Strong contributions from Luka Dončić (41.3 PPG) and Austin Reaves (31.1 PPG).
- The next recovery step is participating in live team practices.
- James will not travel with the team during the upcoming road trip.
LeBron James’s potential mid-November return fills hopes for the Lakers as the team relies on depth and standout performances while he recovers.