Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James is expected to miss the start of the upcoming NBA season as he continues to recover from sciatica on his right side. The team confirmed Thursday that the 40-year-old will be sidelined for three to four more weeks.
James has not yet participated in training camp or the Lakers’ first two preseason games, as he continues to deal with what head coach JJ Redick described as nerve irritation in his gluteal area.
According to ESPN injury analyst Stephania Bell, sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve—which runs from the lower spine through the glutes and down the legs—becomes irritated, inflamed, or compressed. Symptoms can include sharp or burning pain, tingling, numbness, or a pins-and-needles sensation. Recovery time varies depending on the underlying cause.
When asked about James’ recovery, Redick stated that the veteran star is “on his own timeline.” If his recovery follows the expected schedule, James will likely miss the Lakers’ opening-night matchup against the Golden State Warriors on October 21.
Earlier this week, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that James was likely to sit out the entire preseason but was aiming to return in time for opening night.
This season marks James’ record-breaking 23rd year in the NBA, surpassing Vince Carter for the longest career in league history.
Since joining the Lakers in 2018, James has been a game-changer for the franchise. The team holds a 248-171 record (.591 winning percentage) with him on the court, compared to 56-78 (.418) when he’s sidelined.
