LeBron James Nearing Return to Lakers' Lineup
The Los Angeles Lakers have started the 2025-26 NBA season strongly with a 6-2 record, led by five-time All-NBA First Team member Luka Dončić and expected All-Star Austin Reaves. However, their 21-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion LeBron James has not yet played this season due to a challenging preseason sciatica diagnosis.
Progress Report on LeBron James' Recovery
LeBron, now 40 years old and entering his 23rd NBA season, is showing promising signs toward returning to the court. According to ESPN insider Shams Charania, James has been training individually and the next step involves participating in 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 also noted that Lakers staff expect James' season debut to happen around mid-November, though this remains uncertain given the situation.
"I was told today that Lakers personnel are still operating under the belief that LeBron James' debut will be around mid-November, but this is uncharted territory."
Team Adjustments During LeBron’s Absence
General Manager Rob Pelinka’s offseason signings—Jake LaRavia, Deandre Ayton, and Marcus Smart—have been crucial in maintaining team depth in LeBron’s absence, highlighting their importance to the Lakers’ strong start.
"He turns 41 next month, he's in his 23rd NBA season and that's why Rob Pelinka's three signings (from) this offseason, Jake LaRavia, Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart have been so important paying dividends with the depth without one of the best players of all time in LeBron James."
Author’s Summary
LeBron James is making solid progress toward returning to Lakers' play after a sciatica injury, with hopes to rejoin mid-November, while the team has adapted well without him.