LeBron James’ long-awaited season debut remains on hold as he continues to deal with sciatica on his right side, but he has begun increasing his workload in a meaningful way.
According to Khobi Price of The Southern California News Group, the Lakers star took part in practice sessions with the organization’s G League affiliate on Wednesday, going as far as participating in full-contact, five-on-five drills.
This marked one of his most strenuous on-court activities since the issue began.
Head coach JJ Redick noted that James’ involvement wasn’t just beneficial for the Lakers, but also for the G League group that shared the floor with him.
“It was also an incredible opportunity for [South Bay coach] Zach [Guthrie] and his staff and all the guys that are with South Bay right now to have that experience,” Redick said.
He added that early feedback on James’ performance was encouraging, saying, “But the reports are that he looked good, and was moving well.”
James didn’t slow down the following day either. As reported by ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, the veteran forward fully participated in South Bay’s Thursday practice and showed no lingering issues from the previous session.
McMenamin notes, citing sources, that if James continues progressing without discomfort, the 40-year-old could join the Lakers for a full practice as soon as Monday.
L.A. Notes: LeBron, Luka, Thiero, Clippers' Young Reserves https://t.co/kCpe4tIACM pic.twitter.com/1PjHTXO94U
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) November 14, 2025
