Injured LeBron James to increase on-court activities

LeBron James will step up his rehabilitation after more than two weeks out, increasing basketball activities ahead of further evaluation.

LeBron James hasn't played since suffering a groin strain on December 25, 2018.

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James is taking steps toward getting back on the court following an evaluation on Thursday.

The 34-year-old has not played since suffering a groin strain in the third quarter of the Lakers' win over the Golden State Warriors on Christmas Day. He underwent an MRI the following day and has missed eight games in which Los Angeles has tallied a disappointing 3-5 record.

Read | LeBron James remains out indefinitely

But James is progressing in his return and has now been cleared to "increase on-court functional basketball movements," the team announced after he was assessed by medical staff.

The former Cleveland Cavaliers forward, who is averaging 27.3 points, 8.3 rebounds and 7.1 assists in 34.6 minutes per game this season, is set to be evaluated again next Wednesday.