LeBron James to Miss Lakers' Upcoming Road Trip
Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James will not join the team for its five-game road trip starting Saturday as he recovers from right-side sciatica, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.
Rehabilitation and Return Timeline
Charania reported that James' next rehabilitation milestone is participating in 5-on-5 live play. This could occur either against G League players or after the Lakers return from their road trip in November. Team officials expect James to make his season debut around mid-November.
Injury Background
The Lakers disclosed in September that James was experiencing nerve irritation in his glute, sidelining him for the preseason. Subsequently, he missed the season opener against the Golden State Warriors due to sciatica on his right side.
"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."
Season Impact and Performance
Despite James' absence, the Lakers have started strong with a 6-2 record. At 41 years old, James remains one of the oldest players in the league but has maintained impressive durability, playing 71 games two seasons ago and 70 games during the 2024-25 season. He averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game.
Minor injuries are expected at his age, and this sciatica is the first setback early in the season. Fortunately, the Lakers are less dependent on James this year thanks to their star Luka Dončić.
"James has managed to avoid missing much time in recent years, but minor injuries are bound to come up at his age."
Author's Summary
LeBron James will miss the Lakers' upcoming road trip due to sciatica, with a targeted return mid-November; the team remains strong with Luka Dončić stepping up.