When will LeBron James return to the Lakers?

According to the article, LeBron James' expected return is tentatively set for mid-November, pending successful rehabilitation of his sciatica injury.

Who will lead the Lakers' offense in LeBron James' absence?

Luka Doncic, who was traded to the Lakers from the Dallas Mavericks, will lead the Lakers' offense in LeBron James' absence.

Home / Sports / Lakers Superstar LeBron James Sidelined by Sciatica Injury, Doncic Steps Up

Lakers Superstar LeBron James Sidelined by Sciatica Injury, Doncic Steps Up

Q: What is the condition that is keeping LeBron James sidelined?

LeBron James is sidelined due to a sciatica injury, a nerve-related condition that causes pain, burning, and numbness radiating from his lower back down through his leg.

22 Oct

•

Summary

LeBron James to miss Lakers' season opener due to sciatica injury
Expected return set for mid-November, pending successful rehabilitation
Luka Doncic to lead Lakers' offense in James' absence

Lakers Superstar LeBron James Sidelined by Sciatica Injury, Doncic Steps Up

On October 22, 2025, the Los Angeles Lakers will open their 2025-26 NBA season without their iconic leader, LeBron James. The 40-year-old superstar remains sidelined as he recovers from a sciatica injury that has plagued him since training camp.

James, entering his remarkable 23rd NBA season, continues to battle the nerve-related condition that causes pain, burning, and numbness radiating from his lower back down through his leg. The Lakers initially announced on October 9, 2025, that James would miss the start of the season due to the issue, which was initially identified as mild nerve irritation during preseason activities. However, the condition later progressed into a full-blown case of sciatica, forcing the team to rule him out of action for several weeks.