Massive LeBron James Injury Update Suggests Lakers Star Can Play in November

LeBron James fans can be delighted as the Lakers superstar is expected to return to the court soon. James did not play the season opener for the Purple and Gold on Oct. 21. The four-time champion had missed a season-opener for the first time in his career.

James was diagnosed with an injury to his sciatica. Initially, there was no firm return timeline for the Lakers' superstar. However, on Thursday, NBA Insider Shams Charania shared a positive update on James' injury.

According to Charania, the medical staff has cleared the Lakers' superstar to have contact on the court. However, he is still expected to be out for at least one or two weeks.

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LeBron James is in his 23rd season in the league. He has become an icon for longevity, proving that age is just a number for any athlete who is willing to put in hard work in their craft and take care of their body.

Last season, James averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists per game on 51.3% shooting from the field. He has been able to hold his own with younger players in the league, and has been putting up numbers that in some games are even better than theirs.

How will LeBron James' return impact the Lakers' chemistry?

LeBron James' return is often a thing many fans would be happy about. However, some fans have been worried about James' return disturbing the incredible chemistry the Lakers squad has found without him.

Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves have been stellar for the Purple and Gold in James's absence. Both guards have proved that they can be reliable players during critical moments, and can take over games when their team needs them the most.

Right now, the Lakers play in a compact system with Reaves or Doncic having the rock on them for most of the time. Other players on the squad play around them, waiting for their creators to create offensive opportunities.

However, LeBron James' return can affect the system that has given JJ Redick's side a solid foundation to build on. James' return would mean that either Rui Hachimura or Marcus Smart would have to rotate out of the starting lineup.

Redick would not touch Deandre Ayton, as he is the only experienced big man option he has on the roster. Smart is also more likely to stay, as he provides solid defensive value. Hachimura will most likely lose his spot on James' return.

Austin Reaves would be another player affected by James' return. He would need to fill in Hachimura's place as a spot-up three-point shooter during plays. Given Austin Reaves' recent form, it would be a significant question mark if reducing him to a minor role were a better decision.

Edited by Avi Shravan