LeBron James Misses Road Trip Amid Sciatica Recovery

Los Angeles, CA — LeBron James will not play in the upcoming games for the Los Angeles Lakers as he continues to recover from a sciatica injury. The 40-year-old forward has missed all eight games this season due to the lingering issue, which the team announced on October 9.

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Lakers are being cautious with James’ recovery. He will remain in Los Angeles during the team’s five-game road trip that starts this weekend. James’ next step in rehabilitation involves progressing to 5-on-5 practice, which could take place with the South Bay Lakers, the team’s G League affiliate.

Coach JJ Redick mentioned that while there is no set return date, the team hopes for James to be back around mid-November. ‘This thing has to progress with all of his return-to-play protocols,’ Redick stated. ‘It’s just somewhere in that general timeline.’

James’ absence has been felt, but the Lakers have managed a respectable 6-2 start to the season. Players like Austin Reaves and several offseason acquisitions have stepped up in his absence.

Fans eagerly await his return, which could be as soon as November 18 for the home game against the Utah Jazz. When he does return, James will be the first player to compete in 23 NBA seasons.