The Lakers have been without LeBron James for all of training camp as well as their first two preseason games and that will continue for the near future.
On Thursday, Shams Charania of ESPN reported that James would be out for three to four weeks due to sciatica on his right side. This means he will miss the team’s season opener against the Warriors
and will be out until likely the first week of November.The Lakers reportedly wanted to be “overly cautious” with LeBron, but didn’t seem to be too concerned with this injury. However, every update since has been negative.
Shams also reported earlier in the week that LeBron was expected to miss preseason, but should be ready for the start of the regular season on Oct. 21. Clearly, this injury is taking longer to heal, and James will be absent for around another month or so.
The impact LeBron has on the Lakers cannot be overstated. He is, at worst, the second-best player on the team and his production can’t be replicated. Last year LeBron was an All-NBA player who averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists per game.
Now, the Lakers will have to start the season having no reps with LeBron in training camp, preseason action and for at least a handful of regular-season games.
Still, if he’s not ready, there is nothing to do but wait. LeBron is 41 years old and entering his 23rd season. That’s more than any other NBA player ever. If James is hurt, then you have to wait for him to feel fully ready to go before he plays.
Injuries are never ideal, but if one must happen, the earlier in the season the better. That way, when he comes back, he is here to stay and can help the Lakers go on a run and begin stacking wins.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick has already been working without his star during training camp, so now he can continue to plan his roster and game plans for the rest of October knowing LeBron will not be available.
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