When LeBron James suffered a strained groin in the third quarter of a win over the Golden State Warriors on Christmas Days, there was initial optimism within the Los Angeles Lakers that he would return before long.
James underwent a series of tests to determine the severity of the strain, and was initially considered day-to-day. However, days quickly became weeks. Time passed without much of an update provided by the team or head coach Luke Walton.
James’ steady buildup eventually led to him being cleared to participate in non-contact portions of practices. He strategically increased the level of activity in practices before returning after missing five weeks.