Image Source: Newsweek
The Los Angeles Lakers are heading into their final preseason game against the Sacramento Kings with some challenging news regarding their roster. Fans were looking forward to an exciting finale before the 2025-26 season opener, but the team announced that both LeBron James and his son Bronny James will not be participating due to injuries.
As the Lakers approach the game with a disheartening 1-4 record this preseason, they will need to adapt without their star player, LeBron, who is sidelined due to a right-side sciatica issue. The team has reported that his condition will keep him out for at least a few weeks, with a reevaluation targeting a potential return in mid-November. This means that fans will have to wait a little longer to see the four-time NBA champion back on the court.
On the other hand, Bronny James is experiencing an ankle sprain, which the Lakers are currently treating as a day-to-day issue. Unfortunately, this sprain will cause him to miss the crucial final preseason tune-up, making this his last chance to prepare for the upcoming season.
Impact on the Lakers’ Preseason Performance
The Lakers’ performances throughout the preseason have been far from consistent, mainly due to the absence of key players. Besides LeBron, the team has also been managing minimal appearances from starters like Deandre Ayton, Austin Reaves, and Luka Doncic. This situation has forced head coach JJ Redick to rely heavily on their bench players including Gabe Vincent, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jake LaRavia, and others.
While the outcome of this game will not affect standings, the lack of two well-known names emphasizes a preseason period that has failed to reach its full potential. With LeBron and Bronny both unavailable, the Lakers will have to lean on their other players to step up and fill the void left by their stars.
Upcoming Season Expectations
Looking ahead, the Lakers will have their regular season opener at the Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday, October 21, against the Golden State Warriors. LeBron’s absence will place added responsibility on Doncic, Ayton, and backcourt players like Reaves and Vincent, as well as the newly acquired Marcus Smart, to establish a strong early season presence.
The Warriors are also navigating through their own injury troubles, having managed a 3-1 record in preseason while missing key players due to injury. Notably, Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green are among those dealing with health setbacks, though both are expected to return for the season opener. This may give the Warriors a slight edge over the Lakers as they prepare for their matchup.
Conclusion
In summary, the Lakers are facing significant challenges as they head into their final preseason game without both LeBron and Bronny James. The situation will test the depth of the team and their ability to adapt in the face of adversity. Fans will be eager to see how the team responds and what strategies are employed to overcome these setbacks as they gear up for their season opener.
FAQs
Will LeBron James play in the opening game against the Warriors?
Currently, LeBron is out due to sciatica but is expected to be reevaluated in mid-November.
What injury does Bronny James have?
Bronny has been diagnosed with an ankle sprain and is being treated on a day-to-day basis.
How did the Lakers perform in the preseason?
The Lakers finished their preseason with a record of 1-4 as they dealt with injuries among their key players.
Who are the Lakers playing in their season opener?
The Lakers will face off against the Golden State Warriors on October 21.
What players are expected to step up for the Lakers?
Players such as Luka Doncic, Deandre Ayton, and others will need to take on bigger roles in the absence of LeBron and Bronny.
