Overview
- The Lakers confirmed he will miss the Oct. 21 season opener against the Warriors under a three-to-four-week recovery window.
- This will be the first opening night he misses in what is now a 23-season NBA career.
- Head coach JJ Redick described a mild nerve irritation in the right glute and emphasized he will only play once fully recovered, with medical analysts noting sciatica timelines can vary.
- James has already missed the first two preseason games and has not participated fully in training camp.
- His absence slows his pursuit of Robert Parish’s all-time games-played record by roughly 50 appearances as Los Angeles turns to newcomers Luka Dončić and Deandre Ayton early.