LeBron James Ruled Out of Lakers Opener With Right-Sided Sciatica

Overview

• The 40-year-old will miss opening night for the first time in his 23-year career.
• He is expected to be sidelined at least three to four weeks from Oct. 10, with an early-November check that could keep him out roughly five to nine games.
• Coach J.J. Redick said the team knew about the nerve irritation entering camp and described the condition as tricky.
• Medical analysis describes sciatica as lower-spine nerve irritation and notes typical non-surgical care such as rest, anti-inflammatories, physical therapy and possible epidural injections.
• With James sidelined, Luka Dončić takes the lead role in the Lakers’ offense to start the season, with support from Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura.