5 things to watch over the rest of the season for the Los Angeles Lakers

4. When will LeBron James return?

Anthony Davis isn’t the only Lakers star looking to return as the regular season starts to wrap up. LeBron James is nearing the end of his time out with a high ankle sprain.

Just how soon might he make it back? That’s the mystery.

James sprained the ankle on Mar. 20. That was almost exactly four weeks ago. With a 4-6 week timetable on his recovery, the window is now open.

Given James’ age, the Lakers would be wise not to rush him back, even if that means waiting until the six weeks are up to clear him. That would put his return at the start of May with nine games remaining in the season.

The same questions will loom for James as Davis. How long will it take him to settle back onto the court? How will the Lakers manage the desire to prevent further injury with the pressure of the playoffs and a potential play-in tournament at stake?

What’s not in question is how James and Davis will strengthen the team considerably once they’re up to speed. Nothing can quite take the place of James’ 25.4 points, 7.9 rebounds and 7.9 assists per game.