LeBron James is expected to miss the entire preseason with the goal of being ready for opening night. James, 40, has been dealing with nerve irritation in his glute.

LeBron James Expected to Miss Entire Preseason, Eyes Return for Opening Night

NBA superstar LeBron James is expected to miss the entire 2025 preseason as he recovers from a lingering nerve irritation in his glute, according to team sources. At 40 years old and entering his 22nd NBA season, James and the Los Angeles Lakers are taking a cautious approach, prioritizing long-term health and availability over short-term preseason action. The goal is clear: have the four-time NBA champion fully ready for opening night.

The decision comes as no surprise to those familiar with James’ meticulous approach to his body and career longevity. The nerve issue, while not believed to be serious, has caused discomfort and limited his ability to participate fully in training camp. Medical staff have advised rest and targeted treatment, and James is reportedly responding well to therapy. Though he remains sidelined from preseason competition, he continues to stay involved in team activities, often seen courtside during practice sessions and in leadership roles off the court.

The Lakers are fully aligned with the decision. Head coach Darvin Ham emphasized that there’s no need to rush their veteran leader back into preseason games that have no bearing on regular-season standings. “LeBron knows his body better than anyone. Our focus is making sure he’s 100% when it matters,” Ham said during a media availability. “This is about the long haul. We want him at his best come Game 1 and for the stretch ahead.”

James, who has famously invested millions annually into maintaining his physical condition, has battled through injuries in recent seasons but has consistently shown the ability to return and perform at an elite level. Last season, he averaged 25.7 points, 7.9 assists, and 7.2 rebounds per game, proving once again that age is just a number when it comes to the King. However, the Lakers and their medical team are taking no chances as he approaches yet another historic season.

His absence during preseason will allow the Lakers to experiment with rotations and give younger players more time to develop. Newcomers and fringe rotation pieces will have a chance to step up, while established teammates like Anthony Davis will be tasked with setting the tone in LeBron’s absence.

Fans hoping to see James in action during the preseason may be disappointed, but there’s still reason for optimism. The team expects him to ramp up activity closer to opening night, and there’s been no indication that the injury will linger into the regular season. For LeBron, it’s about pacing himself and ensuring he can be available for the grind of another 82-game campaign—and potentially, a deep playoff run.

As LeBron James enters the twilight years of his unprecedented career, every step is calculated. Missing the preseason may seem like a setback on paper, but in reality, it’s a strategic move by a player—and an organization—focused on the bigger picture. Opening night is the goal, and if history is any indication, James will be ready when the lights are brightest.