LeBron James to be assigned to G League as season debut nears

Lakers star LeBron James is expected to join the G League’s South Bay squad for practice later this week as part of his ramp-up toward a season debut, according to Khobi Price of the Orange County Register.

James has been cleared for contact while recovering from sciatica on his right side and is now entering his final stage of return-to-play.

He earned his record 20th All-NBA selection last season.

Meanwhile, coach JJ Redick also said rookie forward Adou Thiero could make his debut on this current road trip, per Law Murray of The Athletic.

The Lakers face Oklahoma City, New Orleans and Milwaukee before returning home.

Thiero, 21, has been recovering from the knee injury he suffered late in his Arkansas collegiate season.