LeBron James is expected to rejoin the Lakers’ main roster in practice soon. This week, ESPN’s Dave McMenamin has reported that James has participated in back-to-back “intense” practice sessions with the South Bay Lakers.
He aims to revamp and recover quickly and to join the main team’s practice by November 18 if everything goes well. Once he steps on the court this season, he’ll become the first player to start a 23rd NBA season. And no one has really done it for this long and with this much consistency.
Reportedly, there was no lingering pain, soreness, or residual effect from the practice, and it is a huge step in the right direction as the Lakers’ fans await the return of their superstar. The four-time NBA champ has missed all of training camp and the first part of the season due to a right-sided sciatica issue.
Three things are integral to his return: maintaining mobility, no flare-ups of the nerve pain, and the ability to endure game-tempo minutes. His practice with the South Bay team is aimed at catering to these three factors.
His age and attrition have been catching up to him slowly, though. Last year, as well, he struggled due to a left MCL sprain during the playoffs. But James has kept himself in surreal shape for most of his lengthy career.
He’s also sat out with intention and always given himself the respect needed to endure such a gruelling physical career. His longevity is so legendary that it should be studied and followed by others in the future.
In his absence, Doncic and Reaves picked up the burden to provide offense, leadership, and fire to the purple and gold franchise. The former Mavericks guard has averaged 34.9 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 8.9 assists, shooting 47.6% from the field and 30.8% from beyond the arc.
The Lakers had a rocky start, and then they lost Doncic also for a couple of games to injury, and in that time, it was Reaves who was leading from the front. The 27-year-old shooting guard has averaged 28.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 8.3 assists, shooting 47% from the field and 30.3% from the three-point line.
Their individual greatness has helped the Lakers win some close games, and after struggling in the beginning to find chemistry and connection, the Lakers have found the formula before James’ return.
After revamping the core and bringing in a totally new support system, the Los Angeles Lakers are finally finding their way out of the dark. Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves‘ splendid offense, combined with JJ Redick’s elite coaching, make this team ready for taking a serious shot at winning it all.
They’ve had an 8-4 record through the first 12 games, which places them fifth in the Western Conference. James’ return will be a stellar addition to the already surging team, which has clear and justified championship aspirations.
