James' anticipated debut next Wednesday sparks widespread discussion! Experts are optimistic about his comeback: a huge boost for the Lakers

On November 15th Beijing time, James shared on social media a picture of his shoes with an hourglass symbol, suggesting that his comeback countdown has begun. Lakers insider McMenamin reported that James is likely to appear in the Lakers’ game against the Jazz next Wednesday, marking him as the first NBA player to play in a 23rd season.

Following that, ESPN’s top analysts VanHoose, Perkins, and Legler provided their insights on James' impending return.

VanHoose said: “It would be fantastic if we get a James performing at an All-NBA Second Team level. But even if he doesn’t reach that right after his return, we shouldn’t be overly demanding. What the Lakers need most now is for him to add some margin for error. Currently, the Lakers hold an 8-4 record, ranking near the top, which is impressive considering the early season struggles. However, the stats reveal some weaknesses: their defense ranks near the bottom of the league, grouped with weaker teams like the Hornets and Jazz; their net efficiency is also in the lower tier, especially worsened after that heavy 92-121 loss to the Thunder.”

“Looking at the numbers, the Lakers probably shouldn’t have such a winning percentage, so achieving 8-4 is partly lucky. Although the upcoming schedule is easier, if the team continues to perform at its current level, maintaining this winning rate will be difficult. James’ return can address this issue by increasing the team's tolerance for mistakes — that is his core value. He might need a few weeks to fully regain form, but despite injuries to key players like Doncic and Reaves early in the season, the Lakers have held steady. Now that the team’s situation is improving, once James is back, the Lakers are likely to experience a strong resurgence.”

Perkins commented: “I believe James’ return will bring immense benefits to the Lakers thanks to his high basketball IQ, no doubt about that. I know you pay attention to stats, but I don’t get hung up on numbers; I prefer to judge teams by watching games. Many general managers in league polls consider Pelinka the worst GM in the NBA. Well, maybe that’s a bit harsh.”

“What I want to emphasize is that James has always been willing to accept any role if it means winning. Looking at the current Lakers roster, they actually have strong depth. Hachimura is having a career-best season, averaging 16 points with a 50% field goal percentage and over 40% from three; Smart ranks second in the league for steals. With such a foundation and James’ versatility across positions, I’m especially eager to see him playing the four spot in pick-and-rolls with Doncic. So I firmly believe James’ comeback will elevate the team’s strength. In your opinion, besides the Thunder and Nuggets, which Western Conference team clearly outmatches the Lakers?”

Legler analyzed James’ impact by referencing the Lakers’ heavy defeat to the Thunder. “I know the Thunder are the league’s best defensive team, but I noticed a key issue: the Lakers couldn’t break through their defense at all. James is capable of doing that. Even early in the game, when pushing the ball, he could break double teams.”

“Doncic isn’t quick enough to do that; Reaves lacks the physicality. James can tear apart such defenses and disrupt their schemes, creating more scoring chances inside — but in the recent game against the Thunder, the Lakers failed to execute their usual offensive rhythm and scoring efficiency. Therefore, I believe James’ return will solve these offensive problems.”

Do you think James’ comeback will help the Lakers? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.