Source: LeBron James expected to play in Cavaliers' season opener

LeBron James is expected to play in the Cleveland Cavaliers' regular-season opener next week despite his recent back problems, a league source told Yahoo Sports on Saturday.

James received an anti-inflammatory injection in his back on Oct. 13 and has played in only two preseason games. James, however, has been working out daily and his back is improving, the source said.

James and the Cavaliers open the regular season on Tuesday on the road against the Chicago Bulls.

James, 30, received a similar anti-inflammatory shot last season because of back pain and a strained left knee. He recently said he would be open to receiving another shot in his back if necessary.

James is entering his 13th NBA season and has averaged 39.1 minutes over 911 career regular-season games.

More NBA coverage: