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Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick offered the most detailed update yet on LeBron James’ recovery, confirming Wednesday that the 40-year-old superstar participated in his first full-contact session of the season during a practice stint with the South Bay Lakers, the franchise’s G League affiliate. The progress, Redick said, is an encouraging sign that the NBA’s all-time leading scorer is tracking toward a return later this month. Redick: LeBron Completed 12–15 Live Possessions in G League Practice Speaking before the Lakers continued their five-game road trip in Oklahoma City on Wednesday, Redick outlined a structured progression James completed during the G League run. “He was able to participate in the practice,” Redick said. “Got up and down with some warm-up transition drills, then progressed to five-on-five in the half court. He got through about 12 to 15 live possessions of full-contact work. The reports are that he looked great.” Redick also noted that James’ presence was a valuable moment for the South Bay coaching staff and players. “Incredible opportunity for Zach [Guthrie] and his staff,” Redick added. “Anytime you have LeBron in your gym, it’s a meaningful experience.” The update aligns with reporting from ESPN’s Shams Charania, who broke the news that James had officially cleared the most important hurdle of his rehabilitation. “LeBron James went through his first full practice of the season — and more importantly, his first five-on-five action,” Charania said Wednesday on NBA Today. “Sources told me he looked great, felt great, and showed no lingering issues.” James Clears Major Benchmark in Recovery From Sciatic Nerve Irritation James has been sidelined since training camp with sciatic nerve irritation on his right side, a condition the Lakers have treated with caution, given his age and workload history. The G League practice marked his most significant recovery milestone, putting him much closer to a return in his unprecedented 23rd NBA season. Charania reported that James is “motivated and eager” to rejoin the lineup, with a target timeframe of mid to late November depending on day-to-day evaluation. The Lakers’ upcoming schedule gives them natural return windows: Nov. 18 vs. Utah Jazz — earliest possible return Nov. 23 at Utah — considered unlikely due to travel Nov. 25 vs. LA Clippers — strongest secondary option When asked if James would rejoin Lakers practice on Monday to prepare for the Jazz game, Redick remained cautious. “That’s four days away. I have no idea,” Redick said. “It’ll depend on how he responds to this workload.” Lakers Thriving Without LeBron — But Eager for His Return Despite James’ absence, the Lakers have surged to an 8–3 record, led by Luka Dončić’s historic start in his first full season with the franchise. Dončić is averaging: career-high 37.1 points, 9.4 rebounds and 9.1 assists — numbers that put him squarely in early MVP conversations. James’ looming return would give the Lakers a significant boost, further solidifying their standing near the top of the Western Conference. Dončić didn’t hide his excitement.
