LeBron James Takes Major Step Toward Return with G League Practice

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA (AP) — LeBron James is getting closer to returning to the Los Angeles Lakers after practicing with the team’s G League affiliate in El Segundo, California, on Wednesday. James has not played this season due to sciatica, a painful lower-body nerve issue affecting his right side.

Lakers coach JJ Redick confirmed that James participated in his first practice of the season, telling reporters he looked good during the session. ‘He was able to participate in the practice,’ Redick said. ‘Got up and down a little bit with just some, like, warm-up transition drills and progressed to 5-on-5 in the half court, and got about 12 to 15 possessions of live 5-on-5 contact.’

This marks a crucial step for James, who is preparing for his 23rd NBA season. The 40-year-old is the all-time scoring leader in the league and has missed the first nine games of the 2025-26 season. Despite his absence, the Lakers have won eight of their first 11 games.

James developed sciatica near the start of training camp, and the Lakers have not provided a specific timeline for his recovery. Meanwhile, the team is currently engaged in a five-game road trip, with their next game scheduled against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Star guard Luka Dončić has been a standout for the Lakers, averaging 37.1 points, 9.1 assists, and 9.4 rebounds per game, while his teammate Austin Reaves is also performing well, averaging 30.3 points. The Lakers are eager for James to return as they aim to compete for a championship this season.