**LeBron James Eyeing Lakers Return as Early as November 18**
Veteran forward LeBron James could make his highly anticipated return to the Los Angeles Lakers lineup as early as the November 18 home game against the Utah Jazz. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, James will not travel with the team for their upcoming five-game road trip, but the Lakers expect him to debut during a three-game stretch between November 18 and 23. This period includes matchups against the Utah Jazz (home and away) and the Los Angeles Clippers at home.
RealGM further reported that the Lakers are specifically targeting November 18, when they host the Jazz at Crypto.com Arena, for James’ return. The 23-year NBA veteran has been working out individually as he rehabs and prepares for game action.
> “LeBron James has been working out individually,” Charania shared on NBA Countdown. “I’m told that the next step for him is 5-on-5 live play. He will not be traveling on the upcoming five-game week-long road trip that starts in Atlanta this weekend.”
The Lakers, who have enjoyed a hot start to the season at 7-2, are in no rush to bring James back before he is ready. Charania emphasized that Lakers personnel remain confident that James’ return will be around mid-November, thanks in part to their early season success.
**Lakers’ Five-Game Road Trip Begins**
While James continues his individual workouts, the Lakers embark on a challenging five-game road trip starting with the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday night. The trip also features stops in Charlotte, Oklahoma City, New Orleans, and Milwaukee.
Despite dealing with several injuries—James, Austin Reaves (groin soreness), Gabe Vincent (ankle), Maxi Kleber (oblique), and rookie Adou Thiero (knee)—the Lakers are slight betting favorites in three of their five games.
Head coach JJ Redick’s squad will face a tough test when they challenge the reigning NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder next Wednesday, followed by a marquee matchup against Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks on November 15.
Redick has expressed his excitement about the team’s potential when fully healthy.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Lakers aim to continue their strong form and welcome LeBron James back to the court in the coming weeks.
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