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NBA insider reveals LeBron James’ expected return timeline from sciatica

The Los Angeles Lakers have one more preseason game ahead of their regular-season opener against the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday, but one of their superstars has already been ruled out for opening night.

For the first time in his Hall of Fame career, LeBron James won't suit up on opening night. The superstar is dealing with sciatica on his right side and is expected to miss an extended period to begin the 2025-26 season.

The nerve issue has reportedly been bothering the four-time MVP since late July or early August, and the Lakers are expected to remain cautious with the 40-year-old.

MORE:Lakers coach JJ Redick addresses LeBron James' 'tricky' injury

LeBron James targeting mid-November return

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, James will be reevaluated on Oct. 30, though a return around mid-November is anticipated.

“I'm told that the Lakers and LeBron are looking at around mid-November as a realistic debut for him,” he said. “October 30th would be the earliest that the Lakers would be officially reevaluating LeBron James, but it is expected he will need at least a few weeks after that point. A source told me tonight that LeBron will be taking a patient approach with this rehab from nerve injury.”

Reporting for ESPN NBA Countdown on LeBron James expected to take a patient approach before his Lakers season debut: pic.twitter.com/Z2INLMGhfZ

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 16, 2025

Luka Doncic will be the Lakers’ clear top option, especially with James sidelined, though it remains to be seen how Los Angeles manages frontcourt minutes without him. Jarred Vanderbilt, Dalton Knecht and offseason signee Jake LaRavia are all candidates for increased playing time while James recovers from his injury.

Another key storyline is James’ All-NBA streak. The four-time champion hasn't missed an All-NBA team since his rookie season in 2003-04, but his extended absence could cause him to fall short of the 65-game requirement.

With James in the final stages of his career, the Lakers are expected to carefully monitor his minutes ahead of a potential playoff push alongside Doncic. While fans may see less of the aging superstar during the regular season, the Lakers should still rely heavily on him in the postseason.

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