LeBron James is getting closer to making his debut with the Los Angeles Lakers. The team announced Thursday that the 40-year-old superstar has been officially cleared and will be reevaluated in one to two weeks.
The Lakers confirmed that James, who was sidelined before training camp with sciatica on his right side, will not travel with the team during their upcoming five-game road trip.
Instead, he is expected to continue rehabbing in Los Angeles and potentially train with the South Bay Lakers, the team’s G-League affiliate.
“All of this is consistent with LeBron’s long-term plan to return in mid-November,” the Lakers said in a statement Thursday.
A cautious approach makes sense. Despite LeBron’s absence, the Lakers have been thriving, riding an explosive offensive wave to a 7-2 start.
Luka Doncic has started what some are calling a historic tear, averaging 40 points in five games, while Austin Reeves and Deandre Ayton have provided solid secondary production.
When James returns, he will make NBA history as the first player to play in 23 seasons. Even at his age, his performance is still outstanding. Last season, he averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists and 7.8 rebounds per game while being selected to the NBA All-NBA Second Team.
LeBron’s next potential appearance could come as early as Nov. 18, when the Lakers return home to face the Utah Jazz.
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