As the Los Angeles Lakers gear up for the 2025-26 NBA season, injuries loom large over the team's preparations. Key players, including LeBron James and Marcus Smart, are dealing with health issues that could impact their availability as the season approaches.
LeBron James' Injury Update
LeBron James, the Lakers' superstar and veteran leader, is currently managing nerve irritation in his glute. This ailment has already led him to miss the first practice of training camp, raising concerns about his readiness for the regular season. Head coach JJ Redick confirmed that while James will be limited at the start of camp, there is optimism that he will be fit to play by the time the season tips off. Last season, James faced an MCL sprain during the playoffs, making this latest setback particularly concerning for the franchise.
Analysts suggest that the Lakers will need to adopt a cautious approach with James, considering his extensive career mileage. Redick emphasized the need for a tailored strategy to ensure the 40-year-old remains effective throughout the grueling season.
Marcus Smart's Setback
Adding to the Lakers' injury woes, guard Marcus Smart is also facing an unspecified injury that will prevent him from participating fully in training camp. The former Boston Celtics standout was expected to play a crucial role in bolstering the Lakers' backcourt depth, but his current status raises questions about how soon he can integrate into the team's system. The Lakers will need Smart to be healthy if they hope to compete in a highly competitive Western Conference.
Luka Doncic's Preseason Status
In addition to the injuries affecting James and Smart, the Lakers have announced that Luka Doncic will sit out the team's initial preseason games. This decision follows his participation in EuroBasket, where he represented Slovenia, and allows him some much-needed rest. Doncic's absence raises speculation about when he will make his first appearance in the Lakers' colors, but the franchise appears to be prioritizing his long-term health.
Despite these challenges, coach JJ Redick remains hopeful about the team’s prospects. He noted the importance of balancing player health with the need for on-court chemistry as the Lakers prepare for what they hope will be a championship run.
TL;DR
- LeBron James is dealing with nerve irritation in his glute, limiting his training camp participation.
- Marcus Smart will miss some training camp time due to an unspecified injury.
- Luka Doncic will not play in the Lakers' first preseason games as he rests after EuroBasket.
- The Lakers are focusing on player health as they prepare for a competitive season ahead.