Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James is officially back in the NBA, though it’s still unclear exactly when he’ll make his season debut.
After a stint with the G League’s South Bay Lakers, James has been reassigned to the Lakers and will be a full participant in LA’s practice on Monday, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
“James completed multiple days of practices and 5-on-5 sessions this week in the G League and his debut is nearing,” Charania added.
James has yet to make his 2025-26 season debut due to sciatica on his right side.
The NBA’s all-time leading scorer appeared to be making progress in his recovery after the Lakers recently assigned him to their G League squad so that he could participate in five-on-five practices without needing to travel with the team on its road trip.
ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported that James went through an “intense” workout with Los Angeles’ G League affiliate as he makes his way back onto the floor.
The four-time MVP and three-time champion is preparing to enter his 23rd season in the NBA, although he hasn’t shown too many signs of slowing down as of late.
James suited up in 70 contests during his 2024-25 campaign, averaging 24.4 points and 7.8 rebounds to go along with 8.2 assists per game. He shot 51.3 percent from the field and 37.6 percent from behind the arc, earning All-NBA Second Team honors.
The Lakers have opened this season with a record of 10-4 without James, looking to advance to the playoffs for a fourth consecutive year.
Until he returns to the court, Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves will continue to lead Los Angeles’ offense.