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The 2025–26 NBA season brings more than fresh talent; it features high-stakes rebounds from established veterans and stars returning from serious health setbacks. These comebacks promise to shape team fortunes and energize fans. Here are four players whose returns are expected to command attention as training camps open and expectations rise.
1. LeBron James: Los Angeles Lakers
LeBron James posts an encouraging training camp reveal just weeks after suffering an MCL sprain in May 2025. At the age of 40, he still demonstrates mobility and strength in early workout footage. His return this season carries massive implications for the Lakers’ frontcourt and competitive outlook. Fans and analysts alike anticipate whether he still delivers All-NBA level production to anchor L.A.’s power rotation. LeBron’s return intersects with new additions and surgery rehabs, so observers expect him to lead by example and restore championship-level leadership to the Lakers.
2. OG Anunoby: New York Knicks
OG Anunoby returns fully healthy from a hamstring strain that derailed the Knicks’ prior playoff push. Now entering a new contract and fully fit, he re-enters their lineup as a defensive stalwart and versatile wing. His presence transforms perimeter defense. He returns with improved frequency after limited action in last spring’s worst-case scenarios. The Knicks’ Eastern Conference Finals push from the previous season makes his recovery all the more essential. Knicks fans expect Anunoby to maintain elite on-ball defense and three-and-D floor spacing critical to playoff-caliber rotations.
3. Victor Wembanyama: San Antonio Spurs
Victor Wembanyama has overcome a deep vein thrombosis condition in his shoulder and has committed to physical rehabilitation, including an unusual training stint at China’s Shaolin Temple.
His return following medical clearance marks a breakthrough: the league’s top defender and most dominant rookie is poised to resume peak form. Recovery timelines conclude just in time to ramp up for camp. Spurs fans and analysts anticipate his shot-blocking, rim protection, and evolving offensive game. He anchors the Spurs’ defence and reinstates the team’s long-term franchise potential.
4. Russell Westbrook: Denver Nuggets
Russell Westbrook underwent hand surgery after fractures in his right hand during playoff action. Despite that setback, he finished the run, the hallmark of his legendary resilience. Now healthy again, Westbrook looks to reclaim a rotation role with Denver. His return brings additional veteran leadership and playmaking to the Nuggets’ depth chart. Analysts note his acceptance of a reduced role could prolong his value through the season. Fans expect Westbrook to inject energy off the bench, provide assist density, and mentor younger guards.
Parallels to Past Greatness
When comparing these 2025–26 NBA comeback stars to past NBA greats, the parallels are compelling. Each player channels attributes of past icons, while carving legacies uniquely suited for today’s NBA.
LeBron James, now entering his 22nd season, echoes the late-career longevity of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Karl Malone, players who sustained elite impact well into their late 30s and 40s. LeBron’s ability to dominate across eras cements his place alongside these legends of durability and leadership.
OG Anunoby, with his defensive versatility and two-way skillset, mirrors a modern version of Scottie Pippen, less heralded than his peers but essential to his team’s playoff DNA. His quiet dominance on both ends recalls the influence of great glue-guys in NBA history.
Victor Wembanyama, though still early in his career, draws comparisons to Bill Russell and Hakeem Olajuwon for his defensive instincts and rim protection. His unique blend of size and skill sets a new standard for the modern center.
Meanwhile, Russell Westbrook’s relentless motor and triple-double prowess conjure memories of Gary Payton’s energy with the added explosiveness of Allen Iverson. Although his role has evolved, Westbrook’s will to contribute mirrors that of legends who adapted to help championship teams.
Why Fans Turn to Betting Platforms for Form Insight
Basketball fans increasingly consult popular betting sites like FanDuel not only for betting insights, but for up-to-date performance tracking, player trends, and daily form guides. As rotations shift and injuries impact lineups, FanDuel’s insider-style previews, lineup projections, and injury trackers serve as a reliable and authoritative resource. Analysts use those insights to track return timelines and match-day readiness, providing both casual and informed fans with reliable visibility into who’s shaping up for a comeback.
Revitalized Performers in 2025
The 2025–26 NBA season welcomes not only rising stars but also the return of LeBron James, OG Anunoby, Victor Wembanyama, and Russell Westbrook. Each represents a pivotal chapter restart, not just for themselves, but for their teams. Their comebacks inject depth, leadership, and renewed optimism into their respective squads. As fans monitor opening night rosters, the media will scrutinize these recoveries. These athletes combine resilience, impact, and franchise relevance in ways that shape playoff trajectories.