The Los Angeles Lakers sent LeBron James to their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, on Wednesday so the veteran forward could take part in a full-contact practice session.
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the temporary assignment gives the 40-year-old star his first opportunity this season to participate in five-on-five drills while he recovers from right-side sciatica. It is the first G League stint of James’ two-decade NBA career and is strictly procedural.
Charania previously indicated that both James and the Lakers are aiming for a mid-November return. That timetable remains unchanged after Wednesday’s move.
Los Angeles has managed an 8-3 start without its leading scorer, leaning on Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves to stay near the top of the Western Conference standings.
If the practice goes smoothly, James could rejoin the NBA roster in the coming days, bolstering the Lakers as the regular season gains momentum.
Source: Hoops Wire
