TITLE: LeBron James Suggests His Lakers Comeback Could Be Imminent
SLUG: lebron-james-nearing-lakers-season-debut
CONTENT:
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James signaled that his first appearance of the 2025-26 season may be close, posting an Instagram photo of his shoe on the court accompanied by an hourglass emoji.
The 40-year-old has missed every game so far while managing right-side sciatica. Over the past week, however, he has increased his workload, including a full-contact session with the South Bay Lakers, the club’s G League affiliate.
James is entering the final season of his contract and is set to reach unrestricted free agency next summer for the first time since 2018.
Production Still Elite
Despite his age, James remained highly effective last year, averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists across 70 games, earning another All-NBA selection and finishing sixth in MVP voting.
Current Team Picture
Los Angeles has opened the campaign 9-4 behind Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, but the organization has repeatedly emphasized a blueprint featuring Doncic as the primary facilitator and James as the late-game finisher.
Since arriving in 2018, James has averaged 26.6 points, 7.9 rebounds and 8.1 assists over 419 regular-season contests, captured the 2020 NBA title and become the only player with at least 40,000 points, 10,000 rebounds and 10,000 assists.
When James will trade the hourglass for a game jersey remains the lone unanswered question.
Source: Hoops Wire
