In Los Angeles’ final playoff game, they not only lost to the Wolves in Game 5, but LeBron James suffered a Grade 2 MCL sprain.
In a recent episode of his “Mind the Game” podcast, LeBron described the injury as a “pain he hadn’t felt before.”
That’s an alarming statement to hear from a player who has played in the NBA for 22 seasons.
However, LeBron gave us a positive injury update via his Instagram profile on Monday.
The oldest player in the league is back on the court and was working out in New York City this past weekend.
LeBron James is back on the court working out after suffering a knee sprain in the Lakers’ first-round playoff loss. He just posted video to his instagram of a workout in NYC, where he was at Fanatics FanFest this weekend. pic.twitter.com/WqLNqtDz5a
— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) June 23, 2025
LeBron already being in the gym and getting some shots up is excellent news for the Lakers.
Given the seriousness of this injury, it was understandable to be concerned about how it could affect his start to the 2025-26 season.
While we still have a long way to go before the start of the new NBA year, if he continues to progress this well, he could be fully ready to go right from the beginning.
Despite LeBron being 40 years old, the Lakers still rely heavily on James.
He averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists and 7.8 rebounds per game last season and was named Second Team All-NBA. LeBron was the only Lakers player to make an All-NBA team, and he also led the team in assists.
Having him ready to go as Luka Dončić embarks on his first full season as a Laker is crucial to the team's success.
James is clearly taking care of his body, but next up, he must deal with his contract situation. LeBron has a player option for next season and the deadline for that decision is June 29.
Reports have indicated all summer that he is likely to opt into his deal.
Recent events, such as the reported sale of the Buss Family's majority ownership stake, have allegedly not impacted LeBron’s decision either way.
So far, everything is pointing toward a healthy LeBron being ready to play basketball in Los Angeles for his Year 23 campaign.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at@ECreates88or on Bluesky at@ecreates88.bsky.social.