LeBron James injury: “Targeting return for NBA opening night”

The Lakers’ training camp opened with LeBron James absent from the court. The four-time NBA champion, who will become the first NBA player to reach 23 seasons this December, has been sidelined by a glute injury (a mild nerve irritation).

Nothing serious, but coach JJ Redick explained that the plan is to manage him carefully: the goal remains to have him ready for the opening night against the Golden State Warriors. The process will be gradual, with the possibility of seeing him in at least one of the six preseason games.

Last year he pushed too hard to be ready, this time we prefer to take it slower

JJ Redick

LeBron James also admitted he is not yet at 100%:

I’m still getting my body going, no rush. In September, there’s no need to be at peak yet

LeBron James

Even without being on the court, as highlighted by Austin Reaves, his leadership on the sidelines hasn’t been missing:

It’s Bron, he’s always communicating, a natural vocal leader

Austin Reaves

In addition to LeBron James, Redick also didn’t have Gabe Vincent, Marcus Smart, or rookie Adou Thiero available, all dealing with minor physical issues. Vincent, however, is expected to return for the preseason opener against the Suns.