Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports

Report: 'Growing optimism' Lakers star LeBron James could return Friday vs. Celtics

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated Nov 16, 2021 12:15 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers have stumbled their way to an uneven 8-7 record through their first 15 games this season, but they may be getting their "King" back soon.

There's growing optimism that LeBron James could make his return to the Lakers vs. Boston on Friday (ESPN, 7:30 PM), sources tell ESPN. James has been out two weeks with an abdominal strain. Lakers start five-game road trip in Milwaukee on Wednesday.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) November 16, 2021

LeBron James has been limited to just six games this season and has missed the Lakers' last seven contests, four of which have been losses. Overall, the Lakers are 4-2 with LBJ active and 4-5 without him.

It was reported 12 days ago that James would miss at least one week with his abdominal strain.

The 17-time All-Star is currently averaging 24.8 points, 7.0 assists, 5.5 rebounds, 2.3 steals and 37.0 minutes per contest, while registering a .467/.347/.783 shooting line.

Victor Barbosa

Victor Barbosa is a passionate follower of MLB, the NBA and NFL, with a deep interest in Boston-area teams. He graduated from Springfield College -- The Birthplace of Basketball -- in 2013 with a degree in Communications-Sports Journalism. Previous bylines include FanSided, Heavy and Syracuse

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