Lakers Face Kings Without LeBron and Bronny James in Preseason Finale

Los Angeles, CA — The Los Angeles Lakers will face off against the Sacramento Kings in their final preseason game on Friday, entering with a 1-4 record, while the Kings sit at 0-3. The game comes just days before the Lakers’ regular season opener.

However, the Lakers will be without key players LeBron James and his son Bronny James. LeBron is sidelined due to right-side sciatica, while Bronny is dealing with an ankle sprain. Both players are expected to be re-evaluated soon, with the team targeting a mid-November return for LeBron.

Head coach JJ Redick announced the injuries earlier this week, indicating that LeBron’s recovery from sciatica has been a focal point for the team. “We’re targeting around three to four weeks of recovery, but we will reassess on October 30 to gauge his progress,” Redick said.

The absence of the James duo underscores a challenging preseason for the Lakers, who have struggled with player availability. In addition to LeBron, starters like Deandre Ayton and Austin Reaves have also played limited minutes.

Redick termed Friday’s matchup as a ‘dress rehearsal’ for the regular season, emphasizing its significance despite the inconsequential nature of the preseason standings. The Lakers will lean on players like Luka Doncic, who will carry a heavier burden in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, the Kings come into the game hoping to turn things around after a rough preseason. They have dealt with injuries as well, particularly to forward Jimmy Butler, who is anticipated to return for the season opener.

As the Lakers look to finalize their roster ahead of the October 21 debut against the Golden State Warriors, the team remains hopeful that they can build momentum despite the setbacks. The absence of LeBron and Bronny not only impacts game strategy but also shakes up team chemistry as they approach the start of the regular season.