LeBron James begins training camp absent focusing on extended preparation period
LeBron James Sidelined with Injury as Los Angeles Lakers Start Training Camp
LeBron James Faces Nerve Irritation Setback
EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — Basketball legend LeBron James was notably absent as the Los Angeles Lakers opened training camp on Tuesday. The team’s coach, JJ Redick, disclosed that the 40-year-old icon, soon to turn 41 in December, is dealing with “a little bit of nerve irritation in the glute.” As James embarks on his unprecedented 23rd NBA season, the Lakers are set to face the Golden State Warriors on opening night next month.
Coach Redick Plans Cautious Comeback
Coach Redick has highlighted that while they aim for James to recover by the Warriors game, there’s still a possibility he could make an appearance in one of the Lakers’ six preseason matchups. “It’s probably a little bit longer of a ramp-up leading into opening night for him,” Redick remarked, emphasizing the unique challenges of managing an athlete with 22 years of professional play behind him.
LeBron’s Approach to Season Training
Reflecting on his fall training camp efforts from the previous year, where he exerted great efforts to align with Coach Redick’s vision, James acknowledges the need for a more measured approach this time. “I’m still ramping things back up,” James mentioned to Emegypt. “I’m not where I want to be. But I mean, I don’t want to be where I want to be right now in September.”
Preservation for a Lengthy Playoff Run
Sources have reported that James’ team has advised the Lakers to exercise “overly cautious” measures to ensure the star player remains optimized for what they hope will be an extended playoff run. James, who averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds last season, previously announced his intent to play all 82 games but faced challenges that restricted his play, including an early December foot soreness.
Lakers Preseason Games Without James
The Lakers’ preseason kicks off against the Phoenix Suns in Palm Desert, California. LeBron will not participate in this opener, as per Emegypt’s sources. However, Redick expressed the team’s desire for James to play in at least one of the preseason games. “We would love to have that happen,” Redick added.
Veteran Leadership from the Sidelines
Despite being sidelined, James’ influence on practice was palpable. Lakers guard Austin Reaves noted that James continued to relay his observations and contribute vocally, a role he has embraced throughout his career. “He’s always going to observe and kind of communicate [what he sees],” Reaves said.
Lakers’ Injury Updates
Aside from James, other players including Gabe Vincent, Marcus Smart, and rookie Adou Thiero also sat out the full practice sessions. Vincent is expected to return for the preseason opener against the Suns, whereas Redick pointed out that Luka Doncic was impressive in practice.
