LeBron James to Miss Lakers' Upcoming Road Trip
Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James will not join the team for their upcoming five-game road trip starting Saturday as he recovers from right-side sciatica, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.
Recovery and Rehabilitation Timeline
Charania noted that the next phase of James' rehab involves 5-on-5 live practice, potentially with G League players or after the team's road trip concludes in November. Lakers staff still believe James will return around mid-November.
Injury Background
The Lakers disclosed in September that James was experiencing nerve irritation in his glute, which sidelined him during preseason. He then missed the season opener against the Golden State Warriors due to the same sciatica issue.
“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.” — Shams Charania
Current Season and Player Durability
Despite missing James, the Lakers have started strong with a 6-2 record. At 41 years old, James continues to defy age, having played 71 games two years ago and 70 games in the 2024-25 season, averaging 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game.
Minor injuries are expected at his age, but the Lakers benefit from not needing to rely solely on James due to standout player Luka Dončić.
“The Lakers are still 'operating under the belief' that James' debut will come 'around mid-November.'” — Shams Charania
Author's Summary
LeBron James is sidelined with sciatica and expected to return mid-November, while the Lakers maintain a strong start this season aided by Luka Dončić.