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20h ago

LeBron James Cleared to Ramp Up as Lakers Keep Rolling and Rivals Miss Stars

L.A. has opened 7-2 behind Luka Dončić’s record-setting start, sharpening focus on how the rotation will evolve once James returns.

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Klay Thompson of the Dallas Mavericks during the first half of a game against the Indiana Pacers at American Airlines Center on Oct. 29, 2025, in Dallas.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 05: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts after a Laker foul during a 118-116 Los Angeles Lakers win over the San Antonio Spurs at Crypto.com Arena on November 05, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images). NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
Starting 5: Last year's Emirates Cup Finalists open Group Play

Overview

  • The Lakers said James is cleared for contact work, will ramp toward 5‑on‑5, and will be re‑evaluated in one to two weeks while staying in Los Angeles for a five‑game trip.
  • Los Angeles improved to 7-2, with Dončić averaging 40.0 points through five appearances and, per the NBA, becoming the first player to reach 200+ points, 25+ rebounds and 25+ assists in a season’s first five games.
  • Austin Reaves, Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart and others have sustained production during James’ absence, with multiple contributors logging 25-point outings in recent games.
  • The Clippers ruled out Kawhi Leonard (right ankle) and James Harden (personal reasons) against Phoenix, then fell 115-102 as Jalen Green scored 29 in his Suns debut and Bradley Beal struggled in his return to Arizona.
  • Stephen Curry missed multiple games with an illness, and Denver routed Golden State 129-104 in NBA Cup group play behind Nikola Jokić’s 26 points, nine rebounds and nine assists.