UPDATE: LeBron James has just completed another practice with the G League’s South Bay Lakers, reporting no lingering effects from his previous workouts. This encouraging news comes just days after James participated in his first five-on-five play since the playoffs over six months ago.
Sources tell ESPN that during Thursday’s session, James was a full participant, and notably, he experienced no pain or soreness in his lower back or right side, a significant milestone as he prepares for a historic 23rd NBA season.
At 41 years old, James missed the entire training camp and the first 12 games of the season while recovering from sciatica. His participation in G League practices is a crucial step toward his return to the Los Angeles Lakers, who are currently on a five-game road trip.
The Lakers will face the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday and the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday, but James is not expected to join them on this trip. Instead, he is honing his skills with the South Bay Lakers, boosting his readiness for the upcoming games.
“The workout was intense,” a source present at Wednesday’s practice told ESPN, highlighting James’ commitment to his recovery.
Coach Zach Guthrie led Thursday’s practice, ensuring that James remained actively engaged throughout the session. If James continues to show progress, he is expected to rejoin the Lakers for a practice on Monday, October 30, in El Segundo, California.
The Lakers are set to host the Utah Jazz on Tuesday, October 31, followed by another matchup against the Jazz just days later, on Sunday, November 5.
In related South Bay news, the team has acquired Kobe Bufkin from the Motor City Cruise in exchange for a 2027 first-round pick in the G League draft. Bufkin, a 6-foot-5 guard, was previously the 15th overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks. To make room, the South Bay Lakers waived guard Jace Carter.
Keep an eye on LeBron James as he pushes towards a comeback. His return could significantly impact the Lakers’ season, and fans are eager to see him back on the court.
