LeBron James will practice with the South Bay Lakers later this week. The session will help him prepare for his 23rd NBA season, a record-setting milestone in league history.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick confirmed the plan before their game against the Charlotte Hornets. Redick first said James was “literally practicing with South Bay today,” but the team later clarified the workout would happen later this week because the G League squad had Monday off.
The 40-year-old veteran has not practiced or played this season due to sciatica. The issue appeared early in training camp. The Lakers have not announced a return date, and James has stayed quiet since media day in September.
Despite his absence, the Lakers have started the season well. They hold a 7-2 record and have overcome injuries to players like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. On Monday, they defeated the Charlotte Hornets 121-111, marking their sixth win in the last seven games.
Reaves Excited for LeBron’s Return
“I told him he should play a game (for South Bay) which is kind of funny,” said Austin Reaves, joking about James’ practice plans.
Reaves said he’s eager for James to return to the lineup. “The thing about him is he understands the game as everybody knows,” Reaves said. “Knowing him, he’s been watching these first, what is that 11 games and, analyzing the game in a sense of where he knows when he comes back, ‘This is how I can help the team.’”
Reaves returned from a hamstring injury against Charlotte. James, however, will remain in Los Angeles to continue recovery. He will not join the team on its five-game road trip.
A Record-Breaking Season Awaits
The Lakers’ next home game is on November 18 against Utah. That could be when James rejoins the main squad.
Once he plays this season, James will set a new NBA record for most seasons played. The all-time scoring leader began his career in October 2003, less than a year before the birth of his son and current teammate Bronny James.
At 40, LeBron continues to redefine longevity and excellence in basketball. His return is expected to give the Lakers another boost in their already strong campaign.
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