NBA icon LeBron James has been sidelined from the Lakers due to a persistent groin injury. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, James has now returned to Los Angeles as he moves closer to making his comeback.
“Lakers’ LeBron James has returned to Los Angeles, following medical advice, as he continues to recover well from a groin strain. The team wraps up its road trip on Thursday in Milwaukee and Friday in Denver, sources tell ESPN.”
At 40 years old, LeBron is the NBA’s oldest active player, yet he remains one of the Lakers’ most dependable stars. This season, he has played 58 games, averaging 25.0 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per contest while shooting 51.7% from the field.
Despite his age, LeBron has been a model of consistency, defying the limits of longevity. However, with retirement on the horizon, his time on the court is limited. He is determined to maximize his remaining years, but unfortunately, his recent injury has impacted his availability.
James sustained a non-contact groin injury, forcing him to exit early from Saturday’s game against the Celtics. The Lakers struggled without him. Before leaving in the fourth quarter, he had recorded 22 points, 14 rebounds, and nine assists in 34 minutes.
The Lakers lost the game, and reports suggested his recovery would take weeks rather than months, placing his return around late March. The silver lining is that unlike his previous groin injury, he didn’t experience a popping sensation.
Lakers fans initially feared LeBron might not be ready for the playoffs. Given his history of late-season injuries and his age, doubts lingered about his ability to reach peak form in April, May, and June.
Following the Luka Doncic trade, team chemistry remains a work in progress. LeBron must log minutes alongside Luka to develop the same synergy he once had with Anthony Davis. While they have started to click, there’s still significant room for improvement.
Meanwhile, James has been careful with his health this season, understanding that rushing his recovery could jeopardize his long-term performance. After 21 years in the league and countless miles on the court, he prioritizes body maintenance to sustain his elite level of play.
The Lakers, on their end, will provide LeBron with every resource to stay fit and prepare for the postseason. Currently the third seed in the West, they have a solid chance for a deep playoff run. However, they will need both LeBron and Luka at full strength to contend. The coming weeks will be critical in getting LeBron back to peak condition.
