What's Happening?
LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers star, is expected to miss the start of the 2025-2026 NBA regular season due to a sciatica injury. Sciatica, which causes pain and weakness in the lower back and leg,
has sidelined James for three to four weeks. This timeline suggests he could miss up to 10 games, depending on his recovery progress. The Lakers have already ruled him out for the preseason, prioritizing his rest and recovery. James first experienced the nerve injury during an on-court workout in late July or early August, and he has not played much basketball since then. The Lakers are taking a cautious approach to ensure his full recovery before returning to the court.
Why It's Important?
LeBron James' absence is a significant setback for the Lakers, who are aiming to build on their previous 50-win season. With James sidelined, the team will need to rely more heavily on other key players, including Luka Doncic, who is expected to lead the team in James' absence. James' injury also impacts his personal record, as he has played in every Opening Night game of his career until now. The Lakers' performance in the early season could be affected, potentially influencing their playoff positioning and overall season success.
What's Next?
The Lakers will continue to monitor James' recovery, with a potential return in mid-November. The team will need to adjust their strategies and rotations to compensate for his absence. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how the Lakers perform without their star player and how quickly James can return to his previous form. The team's management may also consider additional support or changes to the roster if James' recovery takes longer than expected.
