LeBron James Makes Historic Season Debut After Injury Layoff

LeBron James is looking forward to getting back on the court! He is expected to make his season debut when the team hosts the Utah Jazz Tuesday. It’s an important time to the future of the Los Angeles Lakers. This will be LeBron James’ 23rd season in the NBA, an all-time record. Tonight, the basketball icon will have gotten over the past 14 games this season. Lately, it’s been sciatic nerve problems that have landed him on the sideline — a nerve ailment from his lower back down the right side of his body.

For the Lakers, James’ absence has been especially pronounced. They recently finished up a grueling five-game road trip with aplomb in the absence of their best player. On Monday, he was back on the practice field with his teammates. This was his first full 5-on-5 run since the team’s playoff loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves last April. His involvement in practice suggests a hopeful path to recovery from his turf toe injury.

Now 40, LeBron James is still proving the doubters wrong. He’s the soon-to-be-all-time leading scorer in the NBA. Currently, he is only 50 games played away from exceeding Robert Parish for the most games played in NBA history. Cavaliers forward LeBron James, for instance, currently sits 508 assists behind Jason Kidd for third place on the all-time assists list. He needs only one more 3-pointer to tie Reggie Miller for sixth place on the all-time 3s list.

James took on a rehab assignment last week with the G League’s South Bay Lakers. Having this opportunity allowed him to be able to get valuable game experience while continuing to recover from his injury. He successfully went back-to-back days of practice with no residual soreness or pain. This is a good omen for his eventual return to competitive play.

Watch as LeBron James returns against the Jazz, looking to make his mark and help his team win. He, too, is trying to build his legacy with every play. His return should be enough to get both players and fans excited again, restoring hopes for a successful season in front of them.