EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — LeBron James sat out the Los Angeles Lakers’ first practice of training camp on Tuesday because of what head coach JJ Redick described as “a little bit of nerve irritation in the glute.”
James, who will turn 41 in December, is poised to become the first player in NBA history to play 23 seasons when the Lakers host the Golden State Warriors on opening night next month. Redick said the organization expects the four-time champion to be ready for that game, though his participation in camp will be limited.
“It’s probably going to be a longer ramp-up leading into opening night,” Redick told reporters. “Year 23 is uncharted territory, so we’re playing the long game with LeBron.”
Slow Approach After Busy 2024 Camp
Last fall, James pushed through a full workload during Redick’s first camp as head coach, something Redick believes was “probably too much” for the veteran forward. This time, the Lakers plan to proceed cautiously. Sources said James’ representatives instructed the team to be “overly cautious” early in the season to keep him fresh for a potential deep playoff run.
James echoed that sentiment Monday, telling ESPN he is “still ramping things back up” and is comfortable taking his time in September. The 20-time All-Star averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists and 7.8 rebounds last season but missed two games in December because of left foot soreness after appearing in the first 23 contests.
Preseason Plans
Los Angeles opens a six-game preseason schedule Friday against the Phoenix Suns in Palm Desert, California. James will sit out that matchup, according to sources. Redick said “it would be nice” for the forward to see action in at least one exhibition game before the regular season begins.
Other Injury Updates
Three additional Lakers were limited on the first day of camp: guard Gabe Vincent (left knee management), guard Marcus Smart (left Achilles tendinopathy) and rookie forward Adou Thiero (left knee swelling). Redick expects Vincent to be available against Phoenix.
Leadership From the Sideline
Although James watched Tuesday’s session in street clothes, guard Austin Reaves noted his veteran teammate remained vocal. “It’s Bron—he’s always going to observe and communicate what he sees,” Reaves said. “He’s one of our vocal leaders.”
The Lakers’ camp continues this week as the team prepares for its preseason opener and the Oct. 29 regular-season game against Golden State.
Source: ESPN
