Overview

• The Lakers said James has right-side sciatica, he is limited to light shooting, will be reevaluated in three to four weeks, and is expected to miss the season opener for the first time in his career.
• James exercised his 2025–26 player option in the summer, there has been no move toward an extension, and agent Rich Paul said they will evaluate what is best with a focus on competing for a title.
• People close to James told ESPN it is unknown how his career will end, and James said the finish is “a lot sooner than later.”
• Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves have voiced that they enjoy playing with James and want the partnership to continue, with Reaves suggesting he believes James has “five years” left.
• ClutchPoints, citing ESPN context, reported the uncertainty could influence trade aggressiveness this season as the Lakers weigh using future firsts and swap rights around the James–Dončić window.