Lakers star LeBron James has taken a significant step toward making his season debut, after being sidelined by a nerve issue in his lower body. The NBA’s all-time leading scorer has now been cleared to participate in full-contact basketball activities.
This update is positive news for the Lakers and their fans, who have been waiting for his return. While there is still no exact date for his first game, this clearance means he is moving into the final stages of his recovery. The team is being careful, ensuring he is fully ready before he steps back onto the court for his 23rd season.
🟢 A Major Step Forward
LeBron James has been dealing with sciatica, a nerve problem that has kept him out of practice and the start of the 2025-26 season. After weeks of individual workouts, he has now been given the green light for contact drills and five-on-five practice sessions. This is a crucial part of his recovery, as it allows him to test his fitness in real game situations.
🗓️ What’s Next in His Recovery
The Lakers have announced that their team doctor will check on James again in one to two weeks. This next evaluation will provide a clearer picture of when he might be ready to play. The team is following a careful plan, making sure not to rush his return. Coach JJ Redick mentioned that the hope is for him to be back sometime in the middle of November.
✈️ The Road Ahead
One challenge is that the Lakers are about to start a five-game road trip, and James is not expected to travel with the team. This means he will need to find other ways to get his practice time in. One option could be joining the Lakers’ G League team for training sessions while the main squad is away. The team’s next home game is on November 18, which could be a possible target for his return.
