The Los Angeles Lakers are preparing to welcome back LeBron James after the veteran star was reinstated to the main roster.
Austin Reaves has his say on LeBron’s return: ‘You know how he is’
LeBron James missed the first month of the season due to sciatica on his right side, yet the Los Angeles Lakers have remained near the top of the Western Conference.
The team sits in fourth place with in the West with a 10–4 record. Now, they are poised to welcome back one of the greatest players of all time.
The Lakers refused to rush LeBron’s return to avoid a setback for the 41-year-old as he enters his 23rd NBA season. He began working out with the G League affiliate South Bay Lakers last week while JJ Redick’s squad was on a five-game road trip.
Breaking: LeBron James has been reassigned back to the Lakers from NBA G League South Bay and will be a full participant at Lakers practice on Monday, sources tell @ShamsCharania.
— ESPN (@espn) November 16, 2025
James completed multiple days of practices and 5-on-5 sessions this week in the G League and his… pic.twitter.com/FTEva3y3L5
On Monday, the Lakers reassigned LeBron to the main roster and he practiced with the first team for the first time this season.
When will Lebron return for the Lakers?
Having completed several practice sessions and full 5-on-5 work last week, LeBron could make his season debut on Tuesday when the Lakers host the Utah Jazz at Crypto.com Arena. Austin Reaves, one of the team’s leaders, spoke about what LeBron’s return means.
“There’s a lot of excitement about what we can accomplish as a group. I mentioned it the other day. You know how LeBron is. He analyzes absolutely everything in detail, so I’m sure he’s at home while we’re playing with some wine, watching the game and seeing exactly what he can do to help us succeed.“
“Obviously he’s LeBron and his presence and level of play elevate the team. But at the end of the day he’s a winner. He’s won his entire career and I expect him to do nothing but come back and continue to be one of the best players,” Reaves said.
If he doesn’t suit up Tuesday, LeBron could make his season road debut on November 23 when the Lakers face the Jazz again at the Delta Center. JJ Redick is expected to limit his minutes early and ease him back into a starting lineup led by Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
Related stories
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment.Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.