LeBron James' Return is Imminent Despite the Lakers Seemingly Being Fine Without Him

LeBron James has yet to play an NBA game this season. As he’s been recovering from nerve issues in his back, the Los Angeles Lakers have been slow to bring him back, opting to take a very cautious approach to the 40-year-old's injury.  

However, the Lakers just gave a LeBron injury update that indicates their star is gearing up to play his first games of the season.

“LeBron James has progressed to contact basketball activity and will be reevaluated by team physicians in approximately 1-2 weeks. Any further updates will be provided at that time.”

What is interesting about LeBron’s return is that the Lakers have actually been thriving without him. They currently have the second-best record in the Western Conference at 7-2. They don’t seem to be missing LeBron much at all. Still, it’s crazy to think that the Lakers could actually be worse off with LeBron in the lineup. LeBron has made teams better his whole career, and despite his age, still has a lot left to give. The question is, how will the Lakers' team chemistry and roster makeup change once LeBron is reintegrated into the lineup? 

One player who could see their role change dramatically with the return of LeBron is Austin Reaves. Reaves has been a revelation for the Lakers this year and is a core reason they were able to win games both without LeBron and without Luka Doncic. 

Reaves is averaging career highs in points, rebounds, assists, and steals seven games into the season. Will these numbers decline with the return of James? Almost certainly. However, as long as the Lakers keep winning, nobody (even Reaves) will likely mind.