The Timberwolves play the Lakers twice in October. LeBron James likely won’t be on the floor for either meeting.
The Lakers announced Thursday that the superstar forward is sidelined for “at least” three to four weeks with sciatica on his right side.
Minnesota plays the Lakers in Los Angeles on Oct. 24 — the Wolves’ second game of the regular season — and again at Target Center on Oct. 29.
The Oct. 29 date marks the Lakers’ lone trip to Minnesota this season. So there is an outside chance the 40-year-old James has played his last game at Target Center, though he has not indicated this will be his final season.
Los Angeles could be scheduled for another game in Minnesota in December should neither team reach the in-season tournament knockout round.
James’ absence lightens up what looked like a difficult first five games for Minnesota to open the season. That stretch also features bouts in Portland and at home against Denver and Indiana.