LeBron James Nearing Return to Lakers' Lineup
The Los Angeles Lakers have started the 2025-26 season strongly with a 6-2 record, led by Luka Dončić and likely All-Star Austin Reaves. However, 40-year-old LeBron James, a 21-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion, has not yet debuted this season due to a preseason sciatica injury.
Progress Update on LeBron James' Recovery
LeBron is showing promising signs of returning soon. ESPN's Shams Charania reported that James has been working out individually and is close to participating in full 5-on-5 live play.
"LeBron James has been working out individually, and I'm told the next step for him is 5-on-5, live play," Charania said on ESPN's NBA Countdown.
Lakers staff expect LeBron's season debut around mid-November, though this is still an uncertain process.
"Lakers personnel are still operating under the belief that LeBron James' debut will be around mid-November, but this is uncharted territory," Charania added.
Team Depth Amid LeBron's Absence
LeBron, who will turn 41 next month and is in his 23rd NBA season, has left a gap that the Lakers are filling with recent signings. General manager Rob Pelinka's acquisitions of Jake LaRavia, Deandre Ayton, and Marcus Smart have already contributed valuable depth.
"Rob Pelinka's three signings 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 progressing well in his recovery, with a potential return to live basketball in mid-November as the Lakers maintain a strong start to their season.
Author's summary: LeBron James is close to rejoining the Lakers in full practice and could make his 2025-26 season debut mid-November, bolstering a team already off to a strong start.