Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick offered a sobering update on LeBron James’ condition as the 40-year-old superstar continues to battle a sciatica injury that will sideline him to start his 23rd NBA season.
Speaking with The Athletic’s Jovan Buha on Saturday, Redick acknowledged the unpredictable nature of the issue, saying, “You hope he can be back soon. Those things can be tricky.” His comments, shared on X (formerly Twitter), reflected a mix of optimism and realism about James’ timeline for return.
Earlier in the week, the Lakers confirmed that LeBron would miss the start of the 2025-26 regular season and be reevaluated in three to four weeks. The injury, initially described as “nerve irritation in the glute,” has already kept him out of training camp and all preseason action.
Sciatica – caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve – can lead to pain, weakness, and numbness, often requiring weeks of rest and targeted rehab.
The Lakers are thinking long term
Redick, entering his second season as head coach, emphasized that the Lakers are taking an “overly cautious” approach with their franchise cornerstone. “We’re not rushing anything,” he reportedly told local media. “His health over the course of the season is what matters most.”
James’ absence is a major blow for the Lakers, who were set to debut a new-look lineup featuring Luka Doncic alongside LeBron in what was expected to be one of the most talked-about duos in basketball.
The four-time NBA champion averaged 25.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 7.8 assists last season – numbers that continue to defy age and expectation.
The Lakers have LeBron’s absence covered
To offset his absence, Los Angeles has bolstered its depth with Deandre Ayton, Maxi Kleber, and a larger role for Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura. The team will open its regular season on October 21 against the Golden State Warriors, while fans anxiously await LeBron’s return.
For now, Redick and the Lakers are choosing patience – knowing that even at 40, LeBron’s comeback could once again redefine what longevity in basketball looks like.
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