LeBron James to Miss Start of Season with Sciatica

LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves during Round 1 Game 3 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 25, 2025 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)

By Liam Tate | Oct 9, 2025 | 5:57 PM |

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James will miss the start of the 2025–26 NBA season due to sciatica on his right side, Shams Charania of ESPN announced Thursday. 

The 21-time All-Star is expected to be reevaluated in three to four weeks, ruling him out for opening night when the Lakers host the Golden State Warriors on October 21. 

The injury comes as James prepares to begin his 23rd NBA season and eighth with Los Angeles. 

James appeared in 70 games last season, averaging 24.4 points on 51.3% shooting, along with 8.2 assists and 7.8 rebounds in 34.9 minutes per game.

For now, the Lakers are preparing for an early stretch without their star forward. If his recovery progresses on schedule, James could return by late October or early November. Until then, Los Angeles will have to adapt quickly.

The Lakers host the Warriors on Sunday for their final preseason matchup before the regular season opener on October 21.