LeBron James Injury Update: Will the Lakers Star Return After Missing Start of 2025 Season?

LeBron James’ injury update has become one of the most discussed topics among NBA fans this month. The Los Angeles Lakers forward continues to sit out due to sciatica, a nerve condition impacting his lower back and right side. As of early November 2025, the 40-year-old superstar still has not made his season debut.

The Lakers are currently 7-2 to start the 2025–26 NBA season, defying expectations without their captain. However, fresh information from ESPN’s Dave McMenamin and The Athletic’s Jovan Buha has shed light on where James stands in his recovery timeline.

LeBron James Injury Timeline and Latest Insider Details

At the start of the season, the Lakers ruled LeBron James out of opening night due to ongoing sciatica issues. The team initially projected a three-to-four-week reevaluation period, with head coach JJ Redick stating that James was “on his own timeline.” Since training camp, the four-time MVP has yet to join a full team practice.

According to McMenamin’s latest report, James continues individual workouts and controlled training sessions at the Lakers’ El Segundo facility. His next milestone involves participating in live, full-speed five-on-five drills—a step critical for his return to game action.

Interestingly, insiders revealed that James will not accompany the Lakers on their upcoming five-game road trip through Atlanta, Charlotte, Oklahoma City, New Orleans, and Milwaukee. Instead, he could take part in practices with the South Bay Lakers, the team’s G League affiliate, to get live reps while remaining close to the medical staff in Los Angeles.

“If it happens when the team’s away, maybe it happens with the G League group and getting some reps with them,” insider Jovan Buha said, hinting at a possible short-term solution. Fans immediately reacted to the idea of James being “assigned” to South Bay, a rare and headline-worthy scenario for one of basketball’s greatest players.

How the Lakers Are Thriving Without LeBron

Despite his absence, the Lakers have surged to a 7-2 start, driven by the chemistry between Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. Dončić has been dominant, averaging 40.0 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 9.2 assists over his last five outings. Reaves, meanwhile, exploded for a career-high 51 points against Sacramento and continues to shine as the Lakers’ secondary playmaker.

James’ absence appears to have given both guards the freedom to grow, while also allowing Redick to experiment with different offensive combinations. The team’s defensive rotations have also improved under Anthony Davis’ leadership, showing that Los Angeles can compete at a high level even without their franchise cornerstone.

What This Means for LeBron and the Lakers

While many fans hoped LeBron James would return by early November, the Lakers’ success has allowed him to take a more cautious approach. With the team performing well, there’s no rush for him to push through discomfort and risk aggravating his back condition.

James averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds across 70 games last season. He opted into his $52.6 million player contract for the 2025–26 campaign, sparking offseason discussions about how long he plans to continue playing. Some insiders suggest his current absence could also serve as an opportunity to evaluate the team’s potential before deciding on his long-term future.

For now, the Lakers’ focus remains on keeping their momentum while preparing for LeBron’s eventual return. With his recovery progressing steadily, all signs point to a calculated comeback later this month—once he clears the final hurdle of live, full-speed practice sessions.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: When will LeBron James return from injury?

LeBron James is expected to return later in November 2025, depending on his progress in full-speed practice sessions.

Q2: What is LeBron James’ current injury?

James is dealing with sciatica, a nerve-related condition that affects his lower back and right side.

Q3: Is LeBron practicing with the Lakers?

He is training individually and could practice with the South Bay Lakers G League team while the main roster is on the road.

Q4: How are the Lakers performing without LeBron?

The Lakers are 7-2 this season, led by standout performances from Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves.

Q5: Did LeBron James sign a new contract?

He exercised his $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 NBA season earlier this year.