LeBron James returns to his ‘Promise Land’ Cleveland Cavaliers for first time in NBA 2022-23 season despite ankle issues

LeBron James is expected to play on Tuesday night against the Cleveland Cavaliers, despite nagging issues with his ankle. The LA Lakers are on a six-game road trip, stopping by Cleveland to try to continue their three-game win streak.

James had a strong outing in their last game against the Washington Wizards, as he scored 29 points and added eight rebounds and six assists in a 130-119 win. Before that matchup on Sunday, LeBron was listed as questionable due to his ankle, but was able to suit up. Afterward, James was asked about the situation with his ankle. The four-time champion simply responded with this:

"I'll be ready on Tuesday."

James also shared his thoughts on returning to Cleveland to play against his former team:

"It's a very good team. It's a very well-orchestrated team. And they've been playing good basketball for the majority of the season, so far. We're trying to play some good basketball, but it's always good to go back. We have a lot of history. Very close to my hometown (Akron), and a lot of my friends and family will be at the game. ... It's special in its own right."

Before Tuesday's bout between the Lakers and the Cavaliers, James was listed as questionable again. But after some time, the Lakers have confirmed that the 18-time All-Star will be available to play against Cleveland. It will be his first game back in the Cavs' arena this season.

The Cavs (15-9) have been hot this season. They sit third in the Eastern Conference and have played great basketball as a team. The Lakers (10-12), on the other hand, have just gotten their groove after a 2-10 start.

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The Cleveland Cavaliers don't need LeBron James anymore

2022 NBA All-Star Game

Thanks to the patience of the Cavs' front office, they have assembled an incredible group of young guys that have a legit chance at getting back to the playoffs. Last season, they were expected to make a return to the postseason, but their hopes were crushed as they lost in the play-in tournament.

Over the summer, the front office didn't hesitate to deal their future with the Utah Jazz in hopes of getting back to relevancy. So far, it has paid off. They now have a young leader, Donovan Mitchell, who has enough experience to lead the young core in postseason action.

To many, this is the best Cavs squad that doesn't feature LeBron James. That is true and also the reason why fans are pumped to see how well their team will perform this season. Tuesday night, they'll try to add another win as they take on King James and the Lakers.