NBA Preseason Roundup: Lakers Rest LeBron, Raptors Tinker, Rockets Bring Back Capela
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LeBron James to Skip Entire Lakers Preseason
The Los Angeles Lakers will keep LeBron James out of every preseason game, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The 40-year-old forward took part only in modified practice on Tuesday after sitting out the first week of training camp. Head coach JJ Redick had already indicated the club would err on the side of caution. The plan is for James to be fully available on Opening Night as the organization prioritizes long-term health over exhibition minutes.
James has historically resisted load management, but the shift comes as he enters his 23rd NBA season after recent postseason injury issues. Team officials believe lighter usage in October could translate into a fresher All-Star for the spring playoff push.
Raptors Look for Chemistry in First Tune-Up
Toronto’s starters struggled in a preseason loss to Denver, with each registering a negative net rating and Scottie Barnes finishing without a made field goal. Newly acquired forward Brandon Ingram provided a bright spot, recording a team-high 19 points on 6-of-12 shooting and appearing comfortable as a half-court creator, Sportsnet.ca reported.
First-round picks Gradey Dick (2023) and JaKobe Walter (2024) are not guaranteed regular roles but have welcomed the battle for playing time. “It’s definitely the first time where I haven’t been the main guy,” Walter said. “But I love it. I like the competitiveness.”
Second-year point guard Jamal Shead has quietly taken on an organizing role among the younger group. The Athletic compared his presence to Fred VanVleet’s early days off the bench, though Shead downplayed it: “I’m a point guard. I give out information. They take it, they receive it, and then we move on.”
Rockets Reunite With Center Clint Capela
Houston surprised some observers by re-signing Clint Capela despite already rostering Alperen Şengün and recently acquired Steven Adams. The move aligns with the Rockets’ interest in using bigger lineups, and Capela welcomed the return. “I feel like when I left, it was something that wasn’t done,” he told The Houston Chronicle. “What I’ve missed the most is the fans, the support, the city. That’s why it’s so special to be here again.”
Head coach Ime Udoka said Capela will see time both as the lone big man and alongside Şengün. “He’s a different player as far as rim protection, lob threat,” Udoka explained, adding that the veteran might be the best lateral mover among the team’s centers.
Source: Hoops Wire
