When Will LeBron James Return From Injury?

The Los Angeles Lakers and the entire NBA community are eagerly anticipating the return of LeBron James, as the team continues its strong early-season performance without its iconic leader.

Expected Timeline for Return

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Lakers organization remains confident that LeBron James will return by mid-November, sticking to the plan established three weeks ago. The 41-year-old veteran has been dealing with sciatica, which sidelined him at the start of the season, but he remains focused on a quick recovery.

Team officials note that his next step toward returning to full competition is participating in five-on-five practice. While James is not traveling with the team on its current five-game road trip, ending November 15 in Milwaukee, he may train with the South Bay Lakers, the franchise’s G League affiliate, during that period.

Lakers Stand Tall In James’s Absence

Even without James on the floor, the Lakers have soared to a 7–2 record, highlighting the strength of their roster and strategic offseason acquisitions. Luka Dončić, added last season, continues to impress offensively, averaging 41.3 points per game, while Austin Reaves has contributed 31.1 points per game. Their combined efforts have enabled the Lakers to maintain competitive form and give James ample time to recover.

Jake LaRavia, Deandre Ayton, and Marcus Smart have provided crucial depth to the lineup.
The team’s chemistry and balanced play have eased the burden of James’s absence.

“The Lakers are currently operating under the belief that LeBron James could return around mid-November,” ESPN’s Shams Charania reported.

Summary

LeBron James is targeting a mid-November return as the Lakers thrive without him, supported by standout performances from Dončić and Reaves.

Author’s Summary: LeBron James nears a mid-November comeback from sciatica, while the Lakers maintain top form thanks to strong depth and dominant scoring from Dončić and Reaves.

beIN SPORTS — 2025-11-06