NBA News: Lakers Heave Sigh Of Relief As LeBron James Set To Return

The Los Angeles Lakers got a bit of good news--with reports that LeBron James has been cleared to rejoin the team.

The 36-year-old had a brief stint in the NBA’s health and safety protocols. Per the reports by both ESPN and The Athletic, it was revealed that James underwent eight negative tests since returning to Los Angeles on Tuesday, November 30.

"In accordance with the protocols, and the consistent testing practice that has been in place since the 2019-20 season restart in Orlando, the sample that produced the initial positive test was re-run twice and returned one negative and one positive result on two different PCR instruments. As a result, James underwent additional testing on November 30, with one test returning a negative result and a second test resulting in a clinically inconclusive result," part of the official statement from the NBA read.

James initially tested positive for COVID-19 before the Lakers's match with the Sacramento Kings.

Even without the top star, the Lakers pulled off a win over the Kings, 117-92.

With the announcement, James is expected to return to action when the Lakers face their cross-town rival Los Angeles Clippers on Friday, December 3.

After winning over the Kings, the Lakers improved to 12-11.

However, the struggling franchise needs to push themselves a bit more as they continue to fail to meet expectations as title-favorites this season.

James has played only 11 games this season, averaging 25.8 points, 6.8 assists, and 5.2 rebounds.

So far, only Anthony Davis has been consistently keeping the Lakers afloat.

Lakers coach Frank Vogel is also on the hot seat as he tries to optimize the available players in the lineup.