Overview
- Head coach JJ Redick said the Lakers stopped holding morning shootarounds 12–13 days ago, confirming the change on Sunday.
- The adjustment applies to the full roster, with Redick citing personnel needs and limited value from shootarounds for this group.
- The timing targets a congested run that includes five games in seven days and multiple back-to-backs, starting at Sacramento on Monday then hosting Atlanta on Tuesday.
- LeBron James, 41, has not played in any back-to-backs since returning from a nerve issue and has missed 17 games, leaving the 65-game awards threshold a concern.
- Despite cautious usage, James has produced since his birthday on Dec. 30, averaging 26.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 7.0 assists, per Newsweek.