Wednesday, October 29th’s matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves won’t feature some of the NBA’s biggest stars — Anthony Edwards, Luka Doncic, and LeBron James. Edwards continues to rehab a hamstring strain, Doncic is dealing with a sprained finger, and James remains sidelined with sciatica.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick provided updates on his two franchise players and their projected timelines for return.
When will Luka Doncic return?
Redick said the team expects Doncic to return to the lineup “in the next couple of games.” The sprained finger on Doncic’s left hand has reportedly improved, going from double its normal size to roughly one and a half times its normal size — a sign the injury is trending in the right direction.
Doncic did not travel with the team for its current two-game road trip, which concludes on Friday, October 31st, against the Memphis Grizzlies.
When will LeBron James return?
Redick noted there is no set return date for LeBron James, but the team is targeting mid-November — specifically the second or third week — as a possible window.
The 40-year-old has been recovering from a nerve impingement in his back, commonly referred to as sciatica. James sustained the injury between late July and early August, which has kept him out of training camp, preseason, and the opening stretch of the 2025–26 regular season.
James’ extended absence has fueled speculation about his future with the Lakers, as contract extension talks reportedly remain on hold — leading some fans to wonder if this could be his final season in the purple and gold.
The Lakers continue to navigate a long list of injuries, with Marcus Smart, Maxi Kleber, and Gabe Vincent also sidelined. Until Doncic or James returns, Redick and his squad will have to rely on their depth to stay afloat in a competitive Western Conference.
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