Lakers G League Coach Gets Honest on LeBron James' Time In South Bay Amid Sciatica Recovery

NBA: Minnesota Timberwolves at Los Angeles Lakers - Source: Imagn
Lakers G League Coach Gets Honest on LeBron James' Time In South Bay Amid Sciatica Recovery - Source: Imagn

LeBron James is back with the LA Lakers after being relegated to the South Bay Lakers to work himself up for a return on the court. During his time with the G-League team, James worked with South Bay head coach Zach Guthrie, who got candid on the veteran star's time with the squad.

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According to Guthrie, James' time with South Bay was surreal as he set up practice plans for the Lakers superstar throughout his short time with the team.

"To have the greatest player of all time, join your practice...What an opportunity for each and every one of us," Guthrie told the media. "Something unbelievable for me as I'm typing up my practice plan to type in LeBron James is pretty crazy."
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"For all of our guys, it was an unbelievable experience...How he takes care of his body is incredible. There's a lot of our guys to learn and take from that on top of the wonderful experience."

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James, who was dealing with sciatica, was assigned to the G-League team last Wednesday, spending days with South Bay practices. His return to practice coincided with the Lakers' road trip.

James has yet to suit up this season, which would be his 23rd in his career, extending his record for most seasons played by any player in NBA history.

The 40-year-old four-time NBA champion is expected to train with the Lakers on their Monday practice after being reassigned to the team yesterday.

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Lakers head coach JJ Redick explains how LeBron James' absence impacts the team

Lakers' head coach JJ Redick spoke about LeBron James' absence and how it impacted other players on the team.

According to Redick, James' absences were a confidence booster for the squad as they allowed other players to pounce on the opportunity of showing out for the Lakers.

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"It’s a confidence boost for the group," Redick said. "I think for certain players who, when we’re fully healthy, may not play a ton of minutes or may not even be part of the rotation. It gives them a reference point.”

Among those who got a chance to play extended minutes is his son Bronny James, who started for the team on Saturday against the Milwaukee Bucks.

The Lakers are currently 10-4 and have won two straight games. They will be playing on Tuesday against the Utah Jazz.

Los Angeles Lakers Fan? Check out the latest Lakers depth chart, schedule, and roster updates all in one place.

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Edited by Rob Andrew Lo
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