Lakers’ LeBron James expected to be out until at least mid-November – Basketball Insider
LeBron James is expected to be sidelined until at least mid-November due to sciatica pain. He is not expected to be reevaluated until October 30 at the earliest, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
As of November 15, the Los Angeles Lakers will play 14 games, including five road games from November 8 to 15. Starting on November 18, the Lakers will play five of their next six games at home.
James averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.2 assists in 70 games last season. He was selected to the All-Star Game for the 21st time and to the All-NBA Team for the 21st time.
If the 40-year-old superstar misses the first 14 games, his streak of 21 consecutive All-NBA first-team appearances will be in jeopardy. Players must play at least 65 regular season games to be eligible for end-of-season incentives.
James reportedly suffered the injury during an on-court workout in late July, meaning he has been battling the problem for nearly three months.
This Lakers team was built to make James the second best player. Now Austin Reeves will face tremendous pressure and demands.
ESPN NBA Countdown reports LeBron James wants to take a patient approach ahead of his Lakers season debut: pic.twitter.com/Z2INLMGhfZ
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 16, 2025
James’ history-making is on hold, but will there be more?
As mentioned before, this sciatica injury will likely break James’ record for individual honors. Could last season be the last we’ll see him receive an end-of-season award?
Looking at this stage of James’ career, playing fewer than 65 games a season might actually be in his best interest. He was selected to the NBA All-NBA First Team 13 times, to the NBA All-Pro Second Team 4 times, and to the NBA All-NBA Third Team 4 times.
He has nothing left to prove in this regard. If he’s serious about making a deep playoff run and trying to add to his four championship total, this could very well be the balance he needs.
Imagine a scenario where the Lakers make the playoffs and James plays 50 to 60 games and reaches his peak in the playoffs. It’s a win for all parties involved, except the paying audience.
James really doesn’t have to play both ends on back-to-back offenses. Unless it’s a matter of playoff standings or sheer desperation, he should be managing his body.
Los Angeles will open the new season at home against the Golden State Warriors on October 21st.
