Overview
- Multiple outlets, citing ESPN and team sources, report James has been cleared to play after missing training camp, the preseason and the first 14 games with right-side sciatica.
- James completed his first full 5-on-5 practice of the season on Monday and said the staff would gauge how his body responded over the next 24 hours.
- Coach JJ Redick labeled his status as TBD and the Lakers listed him as questionable, marking the first time this season he was not ruled out in advance.
- If he appears, James will open an NBA-record 23rd season, returning to a 10-4 Lakers team led in his absence by Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves.
- His ramp-up included five-on-five work with the South Bay Lakers before rejoining a full 14-man practice, with teammates and coaches expecting a smooth reintegration.