Lakers Receive Positive Update on LeBron James' Injury
ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania shared updates on LeBron James’ recovery as the Los Angeles Lakers superstar prepares for a potential return this season.
LeBron James' Current Condition
LeBron, 40, has not played yet this season due to sciatica affecting his right side. Taking a careful approach, he aims to make it to an unprecedented 23rd NBA season.
Lakers' Performance Without James
Although missing the NBA's all-time leading scorer, the Lakers have managed to perform solidly so far. The team is close to welcoming James back to the court.
Next Steps for LeBron’s Return
During ESPN’s NBA Today, Charania outlined the progress toward James’ season debut. The immediate next step is a 5-on-5 live workout.
"LeBron James has been working out individually, and I'm told that the next step for him is 5-on-5 live play," Charania explained.
James will not travel with the team on their upcoming five-game road trip starting in Atlanta this weekend. It remains uncertain if he will get live action opportunities during the trip, possibly with the G League South Bay team, or if the Lakers will wait until the team returns on November 16 to begin live play.
"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," Charania added.
The exact timeline for 5-on-5 play remains undecided.
Author’s summary: LeBron James nears return with a planned 5-on-5 workout, but the timing for live game action remains uncertain amid the Lakers’ ongoing road trip.