LeBron James Headed To The G-League To Join The South Bay Lakers

It's hard to imagine that at any point, NBA superstar LeBron James would be part of the G-League. However, it is set to happen this week as the LA Lakers forward prepares to practice with the South Bay Lakers while recovering from sciatica. The 40-year-old hasn't practiced or played with the Lakers this season after developing the condition right before training camp kicked off.

Lakers coach JJ Redick dropped the news on Monday before the team's game against the Charlotte Hornets. It's a big moment for the Lakers and James as he gets ready to start his record-setting 23rd NBA season, officially passing Vince Carter for the longest career in league history. The good news? He's been cleared for contact and is in the home stretch of his return-to-play plan.

Taking the court with South Bay might sound unusual for a player of LeBron's caliber, but it's actually a smart move. It gives him a chance to knock off some rust and get those game-speed reps in without the pressure of an actual NBA game. Think of it as a dress rehearsal before the main show.

Neither the team nor James is putting a timeline on when he'll officially be back, and honestly, that's probably for the best, especially when the Lakers have been doing just fine without him. Considering they're sitting at an impressive 8-3 to start the season, even with Anthony Davis and Austin Reaves also dealing with injuries, there is no need to rush.

Last season at the age of 40, James provided the Lakers with 24 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists. While it is safe to assume that there could be a slight decline in those numbers, even a more reasonable 20 points, 6-8 rebounds, and 6-8 assists will certainly be helpful to the Lakers when Doncic and/or Reaves are off the floor. One factor that does need to be taken into consideration is how James will blend in with the chemistry that the main ball handlers have created as the main ball handlers of the team this season.

The South Bay sessions should give LeBron the competitive edge he needs to make sure he's truly ready. And while the Lakers have proven they can win without their superstar, there's no question that adding a healthy LeBron James back into the mix will be huge for their championship aspirations.