LeBron James, a star player for the Los Angeles Lakers, is getting closer to his highly anticipated return after an injury kept him out of the early part of the season. Even though he missed the beginning of the 2025–26 NBA season because of a lingering sciatica problem, LeBron’s return is getting a lot of attention. Former teammate Richard Jefferson is sure that King James will fit right back in with the Lakers without throwing off their current rhythm.
The Lakers have been doing well without LeBron, thanks to the strong play of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Jefferson praised Austin Reaves’ great play, but he also made it clear that Reaves will have to change to fit in with LeBron, not the other way around. Jefferson talked about how LeBron has been able to get along with nine NBA Hall of Famers over the course of his career, showing that he is adaptable. He said he is sure that LeBron will quickly figure out how to get along with the new Lakers core.
LeBron is currently with the Lakers’ G League affiliate, South Bay, where he is playing in rehab games and practicing as part of his recovery. The Lakers hope to be back by mid-November, maybe even as soon as November 18, after their current road trip.
The Lakers have made big changes to their roster this season, including signing Luka Doncic to a new contract and adding Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart. This is in addition to LeBron’s long-awaited return. The team is making these moves to improve its depth and flexibility so that it can stay competitive in the Western Conference.
Both fans and analysts are excited to see how the Lakers’ lineup will change when LeBron James returns to the court, especially how his presence might change Austin Reaves’ role. Luka Doncic, on the other hand, is excited about Bron’s return and said, “We can’t wait.” It’s always nice to have him back, and hopefully soon.
The 2025–26 season should be an interesting part of the Lakers’ quest for NBA glory, as LeBron James gets closer to being fully healthy and the team’s new roster shows a lot of promise.
