Lamar Odom: Can't Recognize Friends And Family ... Docs Fear Brain Damage

Lamar Odom's in rough shape -- having a tough time with communication and mobility -- and we're told it's so bad, he can't recognize some close friends and family.

Our sources tell us Lamar has made little progression in the last couple weeks. We're told he's only able to speak a word here and there, and at times he seems "empty."

The scariest part ... Lamar can't recognize longtime friends and even family members when they come to visit. We're told docs believe he's suffered significant brain damage.