UPDATE: LeBron James just completed a successful practice with the G League’s South Bay Lakers, showing no residual effects from his intense workout on Wednesday. This is a crucial development as James prepares to make history in his 23rd NBA season.
Sources confirm that James participated fully in Thursday’s practice, demonstrating his readiness to return after battling sciatica that sidelined him for the start of the season. The Lakers star, who turns 41 next month, missed all of training camp and the first 12 games while recovering from nerve pain affecting his lower back.
James’ comeback is timely as the Los Angeles Lakers finish a five-game road trip, facing the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday and the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday. If he continues to progress, he could join the Lakers for practice in El Segundo, California, on Monday, ahead of their matchup against the Utah Jazz on Tuesday.
During Wednesday’s practice, described as “intense,” James took significant strides in his recovery, engaging in full five-on-five drills without any lingering pain. This marks his first five-on-five play since the playoffs over six months ago, raising hopes among fans and teammates alike.
In other news from South Bay, the G League team has acquired Kobe Bufkin in a trade with the Motor City Cruise, giving up a 2027 first-round draft pick in the process. Bufkin, a promising 6-foot-5 guard selected 15th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, is expected to make an immediate impact on the team. The South Bay Lakers waived guard Jace Carter to facilitate this move.
As the Lakers prepare for their upcoming games, fans are eagerly anticipating LeBron’s return to the court. The urgency surrounding his comeback is palpable, and his performance could significantly influence the Lakers’ season trajectory. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
