LeBron denies target date for return but is 'working around the clock'

LeBron James denied reports he has set a target date to return from injury but insists he is "working around the clock" to get back.

James has been absent since suffering a tendon injury in his foot during a February 26 victory over the Dallas Mavericks, with the franchise initially saying he would be re-evaluated in three weeks' time.

Lakers coach Darvin Ham recently suggested he expected his star player to return before the playoffs.

Reports on Thursday then claimed the 38-year-old had been evaluated and was looking to be back for the final week of the NBA regular season.

However, James denied those stories on social media, writing: "There wasn't an evaluation today and there hasn't been any target date for my return.

"I'm just working around the clock, every day (three times a day) to give myself to best chance of coming back full strength, whenever that is. God bless y'all sources. I speak for myself!"

James has an average of 29.5 points per game this season from 47 games, as well as 6.9 assists and 8.4 rebounds.

It would be a welcome development for the Lakers, who remain in a tight race to make the playoffs after their 122-111 win over the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday, with a record of 36-37 and sitting 10th in the Western Conference.

They have nine games remaining of the regular season, with their final outing a home clash with the Utah Jazz on April 9.

There wasn’t an evaluation today and there hasn’t been any target date for my return. I’m just working around the clock, every day(3X a day) to give myself to best chance of coming back full strength whenever that is. God bless y’all sources. I speak for myself!

— LeBron James (@KingJames) March 23, 2023