LeBron James Advances to Full-Contact Work as Return Nears
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Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James has been cleared to begin live five-on-five action, marking the next phase of his recovery from sciatica that has kept him out since the start of the 2025-26 season.
Reporting on ESPN, Shams Charania said James has been “working out individually” and will now move to full-contact drills. The 20-time All-Star will skip the Lakers’ upcoming five-game road trip that opens in Atlanta this weekend, raising the possibility he could log those scrimmage minutes either with the organization’s G League affiliate, South Bay, or after the team returns to Los Angeles on Nov. 16.
Club personnel continue to target mid-November for the 40-year-old’s season debut, according to Charania. James, who turns 41 next month, is in his 23rd NBA campaign.
The Lakers have started strong without their leading scorer, buoyed by offseason additions Jake LaRavia, Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart. Head of basketball operations Rob Pelinka signed the trio to fortify depth while James completes his rehab.
Standard team protocol calls for players to participate in live action before receiving final medical clearance. With Los Angeles winning early and often, the organization faces little pressure to accelerate the timetable.
James’ work ethic drew praise this fall from Stephen Curry, who noted the veteran’s commitment after they shared the court for Team USA in the summer.
Source: LakersNation.com
