LeBron James, who has missed the entire 2025-26 season due to sciatica, is getting closer to returning on the court. The Lakers announced Thursday that James has advanced to contact basketball drills and will be reassessed in 1-2 weeks.
James will not join the team for its upcoming five-game road trip starting Saturday in Atlanta, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. The Lakers’ first game after the trip is on November 18 against the Utah Jazz.
"The team was hopeful James would make his return in the second or third week of November," Lakers coach JJ Redick said last week.
When he finally returns, James will set a historic NBA milestone by becoming the first player to compete in 23 seasons.
Despite his absence, the Lakers have had a strong start to the season with a 7-2 record following their fifth consecutive win, a home victory over the San Antonio Spurs.
Author’s summary: LeBron James is progressing well in his recovery from sciatica and is on track to return in November, poised to break NBA history with his 23rd season.