LeBron James (Image Credits: Imagn)

LeBron James has remained out for all of the Los Angeles Lakers’ preseason matchups this year. He has also missed every regular-season game so far while dealing with a sciatica issue on his right side.

Earlier this week, the Lakers assigned James to their South Bay affiliate. It allows him to resume on-court work with the team’s G League squad. That move brought progress. Now the Lakers have received even more encouraging news regarding their star.

NBA insider Shams Charania reported that James has officially been brought back to the main roster. He is set to take part fully in team activities on Monday.

“LeBron James has been reassigned back to the Lakers from NBA G League South Bay and will be a full participant at Lakers practice on Monday, sources tell ESPN. James completed multiple days of practices and 5-on-5 sessions this week in the G League and his debut is nearing,” Charania wrote.

The update suggests that James’ long-awaited season debut is closer than originally expected. While the projected timeline had been mid-November, Lakers fans may not have to wait much longer before they see LeBron return to action.

Luka Doncic Discusses How LeBron James Will Fit In

LeBron James (Image Credits: Imagn)
Following the Lakers’ recent win over the Milwaukee Bucks, Luka Doncic offered his perspective on how the team plans to integrate LeBron into their current rhythm. He shared that communication and consistency will be key once James returns.

“Mostly talking about it—first of all, it’s defense. When we get stops, we can get anything out of it, so just play the way we play throughout these 14 games,” Doncic said.

Despite not having James available, the Lakers have still managed an impressive 10–4 start to the season. When LeBron takes the floor, he will make history as the first NBA player ever to appear in 23 seasons. Still, the Lakers are choosing patience over urgency by prioritizing his full recovery before rushing him into action.