Tipster profile image
Victor Petkov
twitter iconlikedin iconlikedin icon
Head of Content authorBadge
Last Updated:

3 min read

LeBron James to miss Lakers’ season opener with sciatica
google news logo Follow us
Add comment
The 40-year-old star will most certainly be out for at least three weeks

LeBron James will miss opening night of his record 23rd NBA season due to sciatica, the Los Angeles Lakers announced on Thursday.

The 40-year-old superstar will be sidelined for three to four weeks as he recovers from the nerve issue, which affects his right side and causes pain running from the lower back through the leg.

James has not yet taken part in a full practice since the Lakers opened training camp last week.

Head coach JJ Redick told reporters earlier Thursday that the veteran forward was “on his own timeline.” Soon after, the team confirmed that LeBron will be out at least until the end of October, likely missing the first five or six games of the season — and possibly more.

The Lakers begin their campaign at home on October 21 against the Golden State Warriors, followed by a busy stretch of eight games in 13 days starting October 24.

James entered training camp dealing with the lower-body nerve issue that has limited his activity. He has also missed the team’s first two preseason games as he works toward full fitness.

“You’ve got to play the cards you’re dealt,” Redick said after Thursday’s practice. “That’s a shame, but that’s just the reality. No one has got any time with LeBron. That’s not just (new center Deandre Ayton), but everybody. (James) hasn’t been on the court with the team, but that’s just the reality.”