What's happened
LeBron James, sidelined for over five weeks with sciatica, has returned to practice after a stint with the G League. His return is imminent, potentially marking his 23rd NBA season. The Lakers, 10-4 without him, prepare for upcoming games.
What's behind the headline?
LeBron's return will be a significant boost for the Lakers, who have performed well without him, starting 10-4. His upcoming game will also mark his 23rd NBA season, a record in itself. The timing aligns with a busy schedule, including a stretch of three games in six days. His health status suggests he will soon rejoin the team, potentially impacting their Western Conference standing. This recovery highlights the importance of veteran resilience and the Lakers' strategic management of star players' health. The story underscores how seasoned athletes like LeBron can extend their careers through careful rehab, and his return will likely influence team dynamics and playoff prospects.
What the papers say
The NY Post reports that LeBron James has been progressing well in his recovery, participating in practices and scrimmages, with his return imminent. ESPN's Shams Charania notes that James 'looked good' and 'moved well,' indicating a positive outlook. The Lakers' schedule suggests his debut could happen soon, adding a historic milestone to his career. The story's timing reflects ongoing team efforts to optimize veteran health and performance, with LeBron's return being a key narrative in the Lakers' season. The coverage emphasizes his resilience and the team's cautious approach to his rehabilitation, contrasting with broader concerns about athlete longevity and injury management.
How we got here
LeBron James missed all of training camp and the preseason due to a lower back injury and sciatica. He was assigned to the Lakers' G League affiliate for rehab, participating in practices and scrimmages. The Lakers announced his injury in October, expecting a 3-4 week recovery, but he has made significant progress, with no lingering soreness.
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