LeBron James isn’t getting any younger, forcing the 40-year-old Los Angeles Lakers superstar to approach injuries more methodically.
James missed the Lakers’ first practice of the season (Tuesday) to nurse a setback that shouldn’t be treated lightly.
“LeBron James was sidelined to open training camp Tuesday with what Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick called “a little bit of nerve irritation in the glute,” ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported.
“James, who turns 41 in December, will become the first player in league history to have played 23 seasons when the Lakers host the Golden State Warriors on opening night next month.”
“Redick said "the goal" was for James to be recovered in time for the Warriors game, but the coach did not rule out James participating in at least one of the Lakers' six preseason games.”
James and the Lakers will be glad they elected to adopt the cautious approach later on.
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Entering Year 23, James must prioritize his health above all, even if it causes him to sit out several games throughout the course of the season.
Los Angeles has a legitimate chance to right their wrongs from a season ago and get over the hump in the Western Conference, giving James an incentive to ensure he takes care of his body from start to finish.
The four-time NBA champion averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game with the Lakers in 2024-25, shooting 51.3% from the field and 37.6% from downtown.
James will be expected to assume a bulk of the offensive responsibilities again in Los Angeles this year.
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