LeBron James is targeting his season debut on Tuesday night when the Los Angeles Lakers host the Utah Jazz. The 40-year-old star has missed the first 14 games due to sciatica but participated in a full practice Monday and is listed as questionable. His return marks the start of his 23rd NBA season, the first player to reach that milestone.
LeBron James, sidelined since August by sciatica on his right side, has missed training camp and the Lakers' first 14 games this season. Reports from ESPN's Shams Charania indicate James is aiming to play Tuesday at Crypto.com Arena against the Jazz, following a full practice on Monday where he noted the need to monitor his body's response over the next day. Lakers coach J.J. Redick is expected to finalize the lineup closer to tip-off.
James' absence has allowed the Lakers to thrive in a Luka Dončić-centric offense. Dončić is playing like an MVP candidate, leading the team in usage while Austin Reaves trends toward his first All-Star nod. Rui Hachimura is enjoying a career year, and Deandre Ayton is delivering the bounce-back season needed. Last season, James averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists, earning Second Team All-NBA honors and an All-Star selection.
The Lakers acquired Dončić last February, creating a dynamic where James deferred during games but increased his usage in crucial fourth quarters. James has expressed readiness to adapt, focusing on catch-and-shoot opportunities. At October media day, he said, "I spent a lot of time on my catch-and-shoot 3-pointers... Understanding how can I make the most of when I don't have the ball, either moving into space. Obviously, Luka and AR [Austin Reaves] going to do a lot of time handling the ball. …We have a lot of guys that can handle the ball, so how can I still be effective on a team where I don't have to handle the ball as much?"
James mentioned his lungs feel like a newborn's after practice, suggesting a gradual reintegration with limited minutes initially. The Lakers face a favorable schedule ahead, including two games against the Jazz, and are favored in upcoming matchups as long as they stay healthy. His return will test how he fits as a supporting piece rather than the primary ball-handler, a role he's long desired but rarely fully embraced.