LeBron James Injury Update
The Los Angeles Lakers' star, LeBron James, is nearing a return to on-court action after missing the start of the 2025-26 season due to a preseason sciatica diagnosis.
Lakers' Strong Start in 2025-26
With 5-time All-NBA First Team selection Luka Dončić and likely All-Star Austin Reaves leading the team, the Lakers have started the season with a promising 6-2 record.
LeBron James' Recovery Progress
The 40-year-old, 21-time All-Star and 4-time NBA champion has been recovering well and is expected to return to full team practice soon.
"LeBron James has been working out individually, and I'm told the next step for him is 5-on-5, live play," ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on NBA Countdown with Malika Andrews.
"Lakers personnel are still operating under the belief that LeBron James' debut will be around mid-November, but this is uncharted territory."
Context on LeBron's Career and Team Moves
Approaching his 41st birthday and 23rd NBA season, LeBron's longevity highlights the importance of the Lakers' recent signings. Rob Pelinka’s acquisitions of Jake LaRavia, Deandre Ayton, and Marcus Smart have been vital for the team's depth in his absence.
"That's why Rob Pelinka's three signings from this offseason... have been so important paying dividends with the depth without one of the best players of all time in LeBron James."
Summary
LeBron James is making promising progress toward his Lakers return, with mid-November as a target for his season debut, underscoring the team’s strategic depth management during his recovery.