The Los Angeles Lakers continue to await the return of LeBron James.
The 21-time All-Star is in the final stages of rehabbing a sciatica injury. He is not currently traveling with the Lakers on their five-game road trip, leaving fans wondering how the King is spending his time away from the team.
Lakers fans got an update this week when it was revealed James had been assigned to the G League.
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Why is LeBron James in the G League?
As it turns out, James has been spending time with the Lakers’ G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, where he’s participating in five-on-five practices. He is using this opportunity to ramp himself back up to game speed as he prepares for his return to the main roster.
In his 23 seasons, James has never once played a game in the G League. He's not expected to suit up for the team on his current assignment.
"He went through his first practice of this NBA season and most critically, his first five-on-five action of the season," ESPN's Shams Charania reported.
"Sources told me this afternoon that LeBron James looked great, felt great as he went through that practice. He moved well and he didn't show signs of any issues as he's worked through this nerve issue on his right side."
For Los Angeles, head coach JJ Redick, the players and fans are all eagerly anticipating James’ return. The Lakers have experienced their share of ups and downs this season, including a 29-point blowout loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night. Without James, the offense has leaned heavily on Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves — a formula that hasn’t been sustainable against top-tier opponents.
If James can complete the final phase of his rehab without setbacks, fans could see the soon-to-be 41-year-old back in uniform on Tuesday, Nov. 18, when the Lakers host the Utah Jazz. That game marks Los Angeles’ first at home following their road stretch.
While it remains unclear whether James will face a minutes restriction upon his return, his presence alone should give the Lakers a much-needed boost as they look to climb higher than the fifth seed in the Western Conference.
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