LeBron James Injury Update: Potential Timeline for Lakers’ Superstar’s Season Debut

LeBron James’s long-awaited season debut seems to be drawing near. The Lakers star has missed the start of his 23rd NBA season while recovering from sciatica, but signs point to a return soon.

Expected Return Timeline

About three weeks ago, ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania revealed that Los Angeles was aiming for a mid-November comeback for James. As the Lakers prepare for a five-game road trip after facing the Spurs on Wednesday, that plan appears to remain unchanged.

“I was told today that Lakers personnel are still operating under the belief LeBron James’s debut will be around mid-November,” Charania stated on ESPN NBA Countdown. “But this is uncharted territory. He turns 41 next month, he’s in his 23rd record NBA season, and that’s why Rob Pelinka’s three signings this offseason—Jake LaRavia, Deandre Ayton, and Marcus Smart—have been so important, paying dividends with their depth without one of the best players of all time in LeBron James.”

Lakers’ Early Performance

Despite James’s absence, the Lakers have posted a strong 6–2 record, led by Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. Dončić has dazzled with an average of 41.3 points per game across four appearances, while Reaves has maintained a consistent 31.1 points per game through seven contests.

Current Medical Status

According to another update from Charania, James has been cleared for full-contact basketball drills. He will be re-evaluated by the Lakers’ medical staff within the next one to two weeks.

Author’s Summary

LeBron James is nearing his return as the Lakers thrive without him, maintaining playoff-level performance while their veteran leader recovers from sciatica.

Sports Illustrated — 2025-11-06