The latest rumors have LeBron James back in the starting lineup as soon as Friday, when LA will visit the Boston Celtics. According to ESPN, James has 50-50 chance to put in real play time this Friday, when they face the Celtics.
There is no surprise that the rumor mill is already pushing for LeBron to be back. After the loss against the Bucks on Wednesday, L.A. is on a two-game losing streak, dropping down to 8-8 and, ironically, #8 in the Western Conference. The solo performance of Giannis Antetokounmpo underlined the difference LeBron can make as soon as he comes back.
James, who is suffering from an abdominal strain, has missed eight of the last 16 games, and a total of 10 games for the season due to injuries. Neither Vogel nor James himself confirmed the rumors that he would be back for the game against the Celtics. But even if this was true, we certainly cannot expect LeBron to be back at 100% in the first game he plays. We will most likely see no more than a few minutes of the Lakers’ star for the first couple of games at least. His return would likely contribute more towards the overall team morale, rather than points on the board right away.
