As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, the Los Angeles Lakers find themselves navigating a familiar challenge, which is managing the workload of their aging superstar, LeBron James.
Entering his unprecedented 23rd season, LeBron is dealing with a mild glute injury that has delayed his participation in full team activities. While not considered serious, the Lakers are clearly prioritizing long-term health over preseason urgency.
The 40-year-old forward missed the team’s first practice of training camp due to what head coach J.J. Redick described as “nerve irritation in the glute area.”
Redick, who is entering his first year as Lakers head coach, emphasized that the decision was precautionary and part of a larger plan to manage LeBron‘s body through a longer ramp-up period than usual.
LeBron, who has spent more than two decades defying age and expectations, acknowledged he’s not quite where he wants to be physically.
However, he remains confident in the medical and coaching staff’s approach, stating that he understands the importance of being fully prepared, not just ready, by the time the regular season tips off.
A deliberate return to form
Coach Redick stressed that the team isn’t rushing the process. “It’s probably a little bit longer of a ramp-up leading into opening night for him,” he said. “We’re in uncharted territory here. Year 23? That’s never been done at this level, and we want to be smart.”
The Lakers are targeting Opening Night as LeBron‘s return date, though a brief preseason appearance hasn’t been ruled out.
Ultimately, the organization is leaning heavily toward a conservative approach, especially given that LeBron‘s camp reportedly encouraged the team to limit his workload early in camp.
The risk of aggravating even a minor issue could jeopardize a season where championship hopes are still alive.
This measured strategy doesn’t just apply to LeBron. The Lakers‘ injury report is already filling up early in camp. Veteran guard Marcus Smart is managing Achilles tendinopathy, while Gabe Vincent remains sidelined due to knee concerns. Promising rookie Adou Thiero also sat out initial sessions due to an undisclosed issue.
The Lakers open their preseason against the Phoenix Suns on October 3, but with several key players on modified workloads, fans shouldn’t expect a full-strength lineup. The regular season remains the priority.
LeBron is no stranger to adversity, and his ability to perform at a high level deep into his career is part of what makes him one of the greatest to ever play.
As he eyes another postseason run, this early caution may prove essential. For the Lakers, patience now could pay off in April and beyond, when it truly matters.
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