This article was originally published on www.si.com as LeBron James Says He Won't Return for Lakers Until He Has 'Grown Man’ Lungs.

LeBron James is nearing his return to the Los Angeles Lakers after recovering from sciatica. He participated in 5-on-5 practice sessions, impressing t

As King James nears return, there have been some murmurs about the Lakers no longer needing to be dependent on the veteran forward to win games. A narrative that LeBron's former teammate, Dwyane Wade, could not wait to break, calling it faceless and nameless.

The Utah Jazz (5-8) are on their way to crypto.com Arena on Tuesday where they will go up against the Los Angeles Lakers (10-4).

The Lakers fell in the latest USA TODAY Sports power rankings, moving from second to sixth in Week 3. The Lakers had previously started the season ranked 11th.

Lakers star LeBron James' next step in his recovery will be taking part in live 5-on-5 reps in practice, sources told ESPN.

Luka Dončić and the Los Angeles Lakers will face Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks Saturday at Fiserv Forum at 8 ET on NBA TV.