Overview
- James missed opening night and remains out, with the team eyeing a second- or third‑week November return window, according to coach JJ Redick and ESPN reporting.
- The nerve issue surfaced during late-summer workouts and was initially projected at 3–4 weeks with a cautious, conditioning-focused rehab plan, per Shams Charania.
- Charles Barkley publicly dismissed the sciatica designation on ESPN, joking that age is the real reason for James’ absence.
- Shams Charania said James’ long-term status with the Lakers is “very much up in the air,” with free agency awaiting after the 2025–26 season.
- Medical experts cited in recent coverage say sciatica recovery can take weeks to months and that the condition alone is unlikely to force immediate retirement.