LeBron James is getting closer to a return, but he’s not quite ready yet.
The Lakers star is currently sidelined due to a left groin strain sustained during a game against the Celtics on March 8.
The injury occurred in the fourth quarter before James exited the game with 6:44 remaining and did not return for the remainder of the contest.
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that James had his first workout on the court in Los Angeles since the injury.
He’s expected to miss at least another week while recovering from the soft-tissue injury.
James played in the Olympics for Team USA basketball squad and won a gold medal prior to the season, and he turned 40 years old in December.
James has played 58 games this season and is averaging 35 minutes per contest for the Lakers, who entered Sunday with a 40-25 record — and they fell to fifth in the Western Conference following a four-game losing streak after winning eight in a row.
The Akron, Ohio native originally downplayed the severity of the injury, expressing “not much concern” and indicating a day-to-day approach to his recovery.
The injury reminded many of a similar groin strain James suffered in 2018, which sidelined him for 17 games, but this one is expected to be less severe.
James’ performance this season has been stellar, averaging 25 points, 8.2 rebounds and 8.5 assists per game, with a shooting percentage of 51.7.
The Lakers led the Suns on Sunday, hoping to snap their current slide in the standings.