Last couple of weeks have been a rollercoaster of emotions for the Lakers. After an incredible six-game winning streak at home, they suffered a huge blow as LeBron James injured his groin during the Celtics clash on March 8. The setback was massive and the LA team lost three straight games with their best player sidelined. Once the Purple & Gold returned home, they regained their groove and went on another three-game winning streak. Still, playing without LeBron remains a massive concern. Fortunately, the Lakers will not have to worry about it for very long because there is now a timeline for LBJ’s potential return.

As revealed by JJ Redick ahead of tonight’s Bucks clash, they are “hopeful” ‘King James’ will make a comeback on Saturday when the Bulls visit Crypto.com Arena.

Last weekend, veteran insider Shams Charania highlighted that James had begun on-court workouts and is making decent progress. He added, “His exact return will be based on how his body responds to increased activity here over the coming days and the coming week.” Looks like the response has been positive so far as James even participated in tonight’s pregame workout.

On the night that James suffered the injury, he claimed that there was “not much concern” about it. However, the day-to-day observation has turned into a two-week-long hiatus. So, it’s great to hear that he is in the final stage of recovery and could return this weekend. Of course, that’s a major boost for the Lakers as they will get their floor general back, who was averaging 25 points and nearly nine assists before the injury. Not only that, the Lakers are likely to get another star back who has been out with injury for nearly a month.

Lakers update: LeBron James is back tonight against the Bulls. Will start the game alongside Dorian Finney-Smith, Jaxson Hayes, Austin Reaves, and Luka Doncic. This starting line-up has a 2-0 record.

Another key Lakers star expected to return with LeBron James right on time for a playoff push

Along with the massive LeBron announcement, Redick revealed that Rui Hachimura could also suit up against the Bulls this weekend. Well, he last wore Purple and Gold on February 27 against the Wolves and has missed twelve straight games due to left patellar tendinopathy. But now that he has begun 3-on-3 workout, the Lakers are hopeful for his return this week.

That’s great news because Rui has been a key part of their success, averaging 13.3 points and over five rebounds. Moreover, his size and ability to guard multiple positions have been a massive asset to the team.

With LBJ and Rui returning completely healthy with only a handful of games remaining in the regular season, this puts the Lakers in the perfect position heading into the playoffs. Of course, Luka Doncic and Co. have done a great job staying in the top four seeds in their star players’ absence. Once they return, LeBron and Rui can pick up right where they left off and hopefully stay healthy for the entire postseason.

An ideal scenario for the Lakers. Wouldn’t you agree?