LeBron James misses the start of training camp due to glute irritation
Los Angeles Lakers star player LeBron James is out of action at the start of training camp due to a glute nerve irritation. Lakers coach JJ Redick confirmed the situation, indicating that the team will take precautions with the basketball legend. James, who will turn 41 in December, will become the first player in league history to play 23 seasons when the Lakers face the Golden State Warriors in the opening game next month. Redick has pointed out that the goal is for James to be recovered for the game against the Warriors. However, he did not rule out the possibility of James participating in at least one of the Lakers’ six preseason games.Redick explained that James “probably did too much” in training camp last fall to demonstrate his commitment and prepare himself and the team during Redick’s start as head coach. “It will be a slower process with him leading up to the first game,” Redick added. “Obviously, he has 22 years of wear and tear on his body and is dealing with a slight glute nerve irritation.” “So, we’re playing the long game with LeBron.” James himself stated that “it remains to be seen” how much he plans to participate in this year’s training camp. “I’m still getting back into things,” James affirmed. “I’m not where I want to be. But, I don’t want to be where I want to be right now in September. So, I have some time and I’m looking forward to the process of getting there.” Sources close to the team reported that James’s entourage met with the Lakers’ management before training camp, with the directive to be “extremely cautious” with the four-time champion in the early stages, with the aim of preserving him for a hopeful and long playoff run. Last season, James averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds for the Lakers. He began that campaign by declaring his intention to play all 82 games. He participated in the Lakers’ first 23 games before experiencing difficulties in early December, leading to an eight-day absence due to left foot discomfort. This occurred after James played in three of the Lakers’ six preseason games last October. The Lakers will begin their six-game preseason series against the Phoenix Suns in Palm Desert, California, on Friday. James will not play against the Suns, according to sources. Redick commented that “it would be good” if James played at least one preseason game. While James watched the training from the bench, Lakers guard Austin Reaves ensured that his presence was felt. “You know, it’s Bron, he’s always going to observe and communicate [what he sees],” Reaves said. “I think that’s the approach he’s going to take right now, [which] is just to be one of our vocal leaders. That’s what he’s done throughout his career.” Redick also confirmed that the Lakers did not have the full participation of Gabe Vincent (left knee management), Marcus Smart (left Achilles tendinopathy) and rookie Adou Thiero (left knee swelling) in their opening practice. Redick added that Vincent should be available for the preseason game against the Suns. As for the Lakers who did play at the start of training camp, Redick, with a smile, commented: “Uh, Luka [Doncic] was pretty good.”“It will probably be a little longer preparation process for him ahead of the opening game,” Redick said of James. “Obviously, in year 23, this is uncharted territory.”
JJ Redick, Lakers Coach
