LeBron James to miss Lakers’ preseason opener vs. Suns due to glute injury

The Los Angeles Lakers have officially opened their 2025–26 NBA training camp, with all eyes once again on LeBron James, who is entering an unprecedented 23rd season in the league.

Over the offseason, James exercised his $52.6 million player option, confirming his return to Los Angeles. At 40 years old, he is set to become the first player in NBA history to play 23 seasons, surpassing the record he previously shared with Vince Carter.

However, the Lakers’ preparations have already hit a snag, as head coach JJ Redick confirmed that James will miss the team’s preseason opener against the Phoenix Suns due to a glute issue.

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“He’s dealing with a little bit of nerve irritation in the glute,” Redick said during a press conference. “We’re playing the long game with LeBron. In Year 23, it’s uncharted territory, so we’re being cautious.”

LeBron James (nerve irritation in glute) will not play in the Lakers’ preseason game on Friday against the Suns👀

@mcten. pic.twitter.com/SwxxjeWwVR

— Coach🧪📋 (@LALdesk) October 1, 2025

Redick noted that James may have “overdone it” in early training sessions, prompting the coaching staff to manage his workload more conservatively as the regular season approaches.

“It’s going to be a longer ramp-up leading into opening night. He has 22 years of wear and tear, so we’re easing him in,” he added.

James, for his part, acknowledged the need for patience as he gets back into competitive form.

“I’m still ramping things back up,” said the four-time NBA champion. “I’m not where I want to be — but I don’t need to be there yet. It’s September. I’ve got time, and I’m looking forward to the process.”

According to reports, LeBron’s camp held discussions with Lakers management before the start of training camp, advising the coaching staff to take an “overly cautious” approach with the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.

The Lakers are set to begin their six-game preseason schedule on Saturday, October 4 (Philippine Standard Time), against the Phoenix Suns at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, California.

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