LeBron James Ramps Up with South Bay Lakers

LeBron James took a measured step in his sciatica rehab when the Lakers assigned him to their G League affiliate so he could take part in his first full five‑on‑five practice, per Shams Charania. Coach JJ Redick said James “will begin practicing with the team's G League affiliate in South Bay” as the club times his ramp‑up during a current road trip, with no official return date yet. Merlin senses the move is smart and deliberate. Los Angeles is 8‑3 without James and Austin Reaves has been a bright spark, but a healthy James — coming off a 24.4/7.8/8.2 season — immediately raises the team’s ceiling. Expect veterans like Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt and Jake LaRavia to keep steady minutes until James is truly ready.