LeBron James is expected to practice with the Los Angeles Lakers Monday, Nov. 17 after the team returns home from a five-game road trip, according to multiple reports.
The 40-year-old star did not travel with the team during the recent road trip.
James has yet to make his season debut due to sciatica, but when he returns for his first game, the four-time MVP will become the first player to play in 23 NBA seasons, breaking the tie he currently holds with Hall of Fame guard Vince Carter.
James’ official status is expected to be announced on Monday’s injury report after he practices with the team. It may also indicate if he is ready to play as early as Tuesday, Nov. 18 when the Lakers host the Utah Jazz.
The 21-time All-Star took a positive step forward over the weekend, working out with the Lakers’ G-League affiliate.The South Bay Lakers play against the Rip City Remix on Sunday, Nov. 16, but James is not expected to play. He began practicing with them on Wednesday, Nov. 12 and did not experience any residual effects from that workout when he returned for another workout on Thursday.
It was the first time James had participated in an NBA-organized 5-on-5 situation since the first round of the 2024-25 playoffs in April.
What is sciatica?
Sciatica is a pain caused by some level of irritation, pinching, or compression of the sciatic nerve, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
The sciatic nerve is located in the lower back and runs down the back of each leg. It begins from the lower part of the spinal cord and extends through the buttocks, back of the thigh and down to the foot.
As a result, the area of pain can range anywhere along the back of the leg.
What does this sciatica injury mean for LeBron James?
James has been one of the more dependable and available players, despite his age.
Still, he will turn 41 in late December and will likely need to manage his usage and body as the season progresses. Known for being a player who is exacting and meticulous about his body and his health, James will likely ensure he is fully healthy before making his return to the court. The Lakers are willing to give him the time and space to make sure that happens.
James has maintained that he wants to compete for NBA championships, so the nerve issue should not be a significant concern, provided the rest and recovery heal the injury. Given the length of the NBA regular season and playoffs, some missed time is to be expected for a player James’ age.