Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James will miss the beginning of the 2025–26 NBA season after being diagnosed with sciatica on his right side.
According to NBA insider Shams Charania, James is expected to be sidelined for at least three to four weeks. Charania reported the update on Thursday, October 9, confirming that the 40-year-old veteran will be unavailable for the team’s early regular-season games.
James, entering his 23rd NBA campaign, already missed the Lakers’ first two preseason matchups against the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors.
The four-time NBA champion averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists in 70 appearances last season, maintaining efficiency with a .513 field goal percentage and .376 from three-point range. He remains one of the league’s most durable stars, though the new setback highlights the physical toll of over two decades in professional basketball.
Redick will now have to rely heavily on Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves to lead the Lakers’ offense during James’ recovery period.
Los Angeles opens the regular season on October 21 against the Golden State Warriors at Crypto.com Arena, followed by games against the Minnesota Timberwolves and Sacramento Kings.
Sciatica, caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve, can lead to lower back and leg pain. Recovery timelines typically depend on the severity of inflammation and the player’s response to treatment. The Lakers are expected to re-evaluate James near the end of October, determining whether he can return before mid-November.
Los Angeles currently stands 0–2 in preseason play, with its next exhibition scheduled for October 12 against Golden State at home.
