Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James is not fully where he wants to be in preseason preparation, sources told Dave McMenamin of ESPN. The team plans to limit his on-court participation during the first practice of training camp.
LeBron is dealing with nerve irritation in his glute, and his camp advised the Lakers to “be overly cautious” with his workload, McMenamin reported. Head coach JJ Redick confirmed the veteran will integrate slowly into practices.
Redick emphasized a long-term approach, noting LeBron likely did too much during last year’s camp. “It’ll be a slower process leading into the first game,” he said, highlighting the team’s focus on championship habits, communication, and shape.
The Lakers’ first practice saw other players on modified protocols, including Marcus Smart, Gabe Vincent, and Adou Thiero. Vincent’s knee is expected to allow him to play Friday, while Smart is ramping up from Achilles tendonopathy.
Redick praised the team’s energy and physicality in early camp drills, singling out Luka Dončić for standout performances. He stressed the importance of internal standards over external pressure in building a disciplined roster.
Even with limited live participation, Redick noted that LeBron can still contribute through observation and selective drills. “Yes, there are ways just through osmosis… we’ll see a fun exercise next week,” he said.
The Lakers aim for LeBron to be ready for their home opener against the Golden State Warriors, with Redick noting that is the goal for Year 23 of the veteran’s career. Integration is prioritized over immediate maximum output to safeguard his health.
Lakers training camp also introduced the team’s 2025–26 season theme: “Obsession.” Redick said, “Understanding the priorities of the job and being obsessed with those and committed on a daily basis… that’s what determines great players. That’s what determines great teams.”
