LeBron James defied doctors’ orders to return early from injury for Lakers

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James returned to the team on Sunday, but he actually defied multiple doctors’ orders to do so.

The Los Angeles Lakers‘ playoff chances seemingly took a hit back on Feb. 26 when LeBron James was sidelined due to a right foot tendon injury.

The Lakers then found themselves above .500 this past week, and James decided that he would play in the team’s game on Sunday against the Chicago Bulls. James didn’t start, instead playing off the bench.

After Los Angeles’ 118-108 loss, James spoke with the media about his decision to return. He revealed that two doctors recommended that he undergo season-ending surgery, but he decided to go to “the LeBron James of feet,” and he was cleared to return.

LeBron James reveals two doctors recommended he undergo season-ending surgery

This past Thursday, James shut down reports that he could return in the final three or four games of the regular season, saying that “there hasn’t been any target date” for his return. As it turns out, he returned with eight games remaining in the regular season, counting the Sunday game against the Bulls.

James played 30 minutes off of the bench, and managed to lead the team in points scored with 19 after shooting 6-for-11 from the field and 7-for-8 from the free throw line. James also recorded eight rebounds, three assists, and five turnovers.

After the game, the Lakers fell to a 37-38 record. Here is what the Lakers’ schedule for the remainder of the regular season looks like:

• Wednesday, March 29: at Chicago Bulls, 8:00 p.m. ET
• Friday, March 31: at Minnesota Timberwolves, 8:00 p.m. ET
• Sunday, Apr. 2: at Houston Rockets, 7:00 p.m. ET
• Tuesday, Apr. 4: at Utah Jazz, 9:00 p.m. ET
• Wednesday, Apr. 5: at LA Clippers, 10:00 p.m. ET
• Friday, Apr. 7: vs. Phoenix Suns, 10:30 p.m. ET
• Sunday Apr. 9: vs. Utah Jazz, 3:30 p.m. ET

After seeing the “LeBron James of feet,” James is back for the final stretch of the season to help the Lakers return to the playoffs for the first time since the 2020-21 season.