LeBron James to Miss Lakers' Upcoming Road Trip
Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James will not join the team for their upcoming five-game road trip starting Saturday as he continues to recover from sciatica in his right side, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.
Rehab Progress and Return Timeline
Charania reported that the next step in James' rehabilitation involves 5-on-5 live play, which might happen against G League players or when the Lakers return from the road trip in November. Lakers personnel remain hopeful that James will make his season debut around mid-November.
“The next step for James in his rehab is 5-on-5 live play, which could come against G League players or when Los Angeles returns from the road trip on Nov.” — Shams Charania
Background of the Injury
The Lakers disclosed in September that James was experiencing nerve irritation in his glute, causing him to miss the preseason. Shortly after, it was confirmed that he would also miss the season opener against the Golden State Warriors due to sciatica on his right side.
“James was dealing with nerve irritation in his glute,”
“James would miss the team's season opener against the Golden State Warriors due to sciatica on his right side.”
James' Past Durability and Current Team Performance
Despite being the oldest player in the league at 41 years old, James has avoided significant absences in recent seasons, playing 71 games two years ago and 70 games in the 2024-25 campaign while averaging 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds per game.
The Lakers have started the season with a 6-2 record in James' absence. While minor injuries are common given his age, the team benefits from having another star, Luka Dončić, reducing their dependence on James.
Key Statistics for Context
- Age: 41 years
- 2023-24 games played: 71
- 2024-25 games played: 70
- 2024-25 averages: 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, 7.8 rebounds per game
- Lakers 2025-26 season start: 6 wins, 2 losses (without James)
Author's Summary
LeBron James is sidelined recovering from sciatica but aims to return mid-November, with the Lakers maintaining strong performance thanks to Luka Dončić's leadership.