LeBron James will miss at least 3 to 4 weeks due to sciatica on his right side, the Lakers announced Thursday.
James, 40, will miss at least the start of the 2025-26 NBA season — his 22nd in the league.
Lakers star LeBron James is sidelined for at least 3 to 4 weeks due to sciatica on his right side. He is out for the start of the 2025-26 NBA season.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 9, 2025
Sciatica is a common injury characterized by pain that originates in the lower back, and travels along the path of the sciatic nerve.
MORE: Is LeBron James retiring? What to make of ‘The Decision 2’
The Lakers are set to host a preseason game against the Golden State Warriors on Sunday. Not only will James miss out on a possible exhibition duel with Steph Curry, he’ll miss the Lakers’ first game of the regular season on Oct. 21 — also against Golden State.
Beyond the immediate implications of James’ injury, the Lakers won’t get the full season with LeBron and star guard Luka Doncic fans had been hoping for since Doncic arrived in a blockbuster trade with the Dallas Mavericks in February.
More to come on this story from The Big Lead.
GET MORE TOP STORIESfrom The Big Leadbysubscribing to TBL YouTubechannel
THURSDAY ROUNDUP:Bill Belichick drama, Flacco in the jungle, and more
NFL:2025 NFL Week 6 TV schedule: Full list of games
NCAAF:Heisman Trophy odds continue to play out after Week 6 of college football season
NBA:LeBron James draws heat from ESPN Analyst over viral ‘Second Decision’ stunt
SPORTS MEDIA:Netflix reportedly set to bid for UEFA Champions League rights with massive offer
VIRAL:Kobe Bryant’s daughter Natalia makes directing debut with iconic Lakers video