LeBron James to Miss Lakers' Season Opener
The Los Angeles Lakers will be without their superstar LeBron James for the start of the 2025-26 NBA season, as the 40-year-old is dealing with a bout of sciatica on his right side. The team announced that James is expected to miss at least the first four weeks of the campaign, ruling him out for the Lakers' opening night matchup against the defending champion Golden State Warriors.
This marks the first time in James' illustrious 23-year career that he will miss his team's season opener. The Lakers will have to find a way to tread water without their all-time leading scorer as he recovers from the lower back/leg injury.
Key Moments
- Lakers reveal LeBron James will miss start of season with sciatica injury - James, 40, set to become first player in NBA history to compete in 23 seasons - Lakers open season against Warriors, facing tough test without their superstar
Player Impact
The loss of James is a significant blow for the Lakers, who are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2024-25 season. Without their four-time MVP, the team will need other key players like Anthony Davis, Russell Westbrook, and Austin Reaves to step up in a big way.
Teammates like Luka Doncic and Reaves have expressed their desire for James to extend his contract with the Lakers, underscoring his importance to the franchise. The Lakers will hope James can make a timely return to help them compete in the loaded Western Conference.
TL;DR
- Lakers star LeBron James to miss start of 2025-26 season due to sciatica injury
- 40-year-old James set to become first player to compete in 23 NBA seasons
- Lakers will face tough test without their superstar in opening-night matchup vs. Warriors
- Other Lakers players must step up in James' absence as he recovers