Lakers Announce LeBron James Development on Saturday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Nov 29, 2025 8:40 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers are rolling, riding a six-game winning streak after defeating the Dallas Mavericks on Friday, 129–119. Los Angeles is finally at full strength, with superstar LeBron James back in the starting lineup after missing the start of the season due to sciatica.

James has enjoyed one of the strongest supporting casts of his Lakers tenure, operating as the team’s third scoring option in his first four games back behind Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.

Even in a reduced role, he continues to impact the game on both ends of the floor in his 23rd NBA season. The 40-year-old veteran has averaged 16.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, 8.3 assists and 1.0 steal while shooting 49.1% from the field and 33.3% from three-point range.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23)Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

As the Lakers prepare for Sunday’s matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans, James appeared on the injury report for the first time since his return on Nov. 18.

Los Angeles announced that James would be questionable with left foot injury management (h/t Marc Stein of The Stein Line).

Despite the questionable designation, it is likely not a serious setback for James. His workload must be carefully managed given the mileage he has logged over two decades in the NBA, and with this being the first game of a back-to-back, the Lakers are exercising caution.

The Lakers list LeBron James (left foot injury management) as questionable for Sunday’s game against New Orleans. pic.twitter.com/h0sk4g7LYZ
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) November 30, 2025

Los Angeles will host the Phoenix Suns on Monday, a matchup that figures to be more formidable than Sunday’s contest against the Pelicans. Regardless, James’ status will continue to be closely monitored as the team balances short-term health with long-term goals.

James’ career accomplishments speak for themselves. He is the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and has built one of the most decorated legacies in league history. His accolades include 21 All-Star selections, four NBA championships, 21 All-NBA honors, six All-Defensive team nods, four MVPs and four Finals MVPs.

Even at this stage of his career, James continues to adapt his role while producing at a high level, showing the same versatility and leadership that have defined him since entering the league in 2003. For the Lakers, keeping James healthy is essential not only to extend their current winning streak but also to sustain their pursuit of a deep playoff run.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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