There's growing optimism that Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James -- who has been out two weeks with an abdominal strain -- could make his return against the Boston Celtics on Friday, sources told ESPN.
James has been making good progress on a return and Friday's meeting with the Celtics (7:30 PM, ESPN) looms as a target for him to rejoin the Lakers' lineup.
The 36-year-old James has started to resume individual workouts in recent days, Lakers coach Frank Vogel said Sunday.
James has missed nine games this season -- including two with a sprained ankle -- and the Lakers are desperate to get him back on a consistent basis.