Not only will the Lakers start the 2025-26 NBA season without LeBron James, but he’s been dealing with this sciatica injury for quite some time, making predicting his recovery even harder.
The injury was first revealed when training camp started in late September. LeBron wasn’t ready to participate, but recent reports indicate it’s been an issue for James since at least August.
According to Shams Charania of ESPN, this injury occurred during an on-court workout.
With James’ injury preventing him from training, he’s not only trying to feel better, but his body isn’t in the shape it usually would be at the start of the season.
This is in stark contrast to last year, when James played in the Olympics and felt “really good physically” entering training camp.
Clearly, an abundance of caution is needed as LeBron, the oldest player in the league, tries to come back from this nerve injury.
The Lakers are already dealing with many absences. Luka Dončić has yet to play during the preseason. Head coach JJ Redick mentioned managing Luka’s workload as part of their training camp plans, considering he played a lot of basketball for Slovenia in EuroBasket.
The team has also played games without Maxi Kleber, Adou Thiero, Gabe Vincent and Austin Reaves. At least now, everyone is aware the Lakers will have to begin this season without LeBron for another month, give or take.
Also important to note that three to four weeks is for LeBron’s re-evaluation. This does not mean he will automatically play once that time frame is passed. He will be evaluated, and from there, an update on his status will be provided.
Hopefully, the revelation that this is an injury that’s been ongoing is a positive one. Perhaps that means he’s closer to a return and LeBron and the Lakers are focused on not rushing back a 41-year-old.
The pessimistic outlook, though, is that he’s older and any injury, even a minor one, should be considered major if LeBron is missing games.
This will be the first time in LeBron’s career that he won’t be ready to play in the first game of the season.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.
