LeBron James to Miss Lakers' Upcoming Road Trip Due to Injury
Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James will not join the team for their five-game road trip starting Saturday as he continues to recover from sciatica on his right side, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.
Recovery and Return Timeline
Charania noted that the next phase of James' rehabilitation involves 5-on-5 live play, which may happen against G League opponents or after the Lakers' return from the road trip in November. Lakers staff currently expect James to return around mid-November.
Injury Background
The Lakers disclosed in September that James was suffering from nerve irritation in his glute, which sidelined him for the preseason. He also missed the season opener against the Golden State Warriors due to right-side sciatica.
Season Performance and Impact
- The Lakers have started the season with a 6-2 record without James.
- Despite being 41 years old, James has been remarkably durable, playing 71 games two seasons ago and 70 games in the 2024-25 season, averaging 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game.
- Minor injuries at his age are expected, and this early season setback reflects that reality.
- The Lakers benefit from having Luka Dončić, lessening their dependence on James during his recovery.
"The next step for James in his rehab is 5-on-5 live play, which could come against G League players or when Los Angeles returns from the road trip on Nov."
"Lakers personnel are still 'operating under the belief' that James' debut will come 'around mid-November,'" Charania reported.
LeBron James remains a vital figure for the Lakers, with his recovery carefully managed to ensure a strong return mid-November.
Author's summary: LeBron James is sidelined with sciatica and will miss the Lakers' upcoming road trip but aims to return by mid-November while the team remains competitive without him.