LeBron James and Rui Hachimura Sit Out Lakers Preseason Game Against Suns

The Los Angeles Lakers will face the Phoenix Suns on Thursday night at 7 p.m. PT for the second time this preseason, but they will be without two significant players from their lineup. According to reports, Los Angeles head coach JJ Redick has announced that both LeBron James and Rui Hachimura will be rested for this game. Hachimura is dealing with calf tightness, while James is being rested for what Redick humorously referred to as “DNP – Old,” borrowing a term famously used by San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich for Tim Duncan in his final years.

Redick, who shares a long history with James, is aware of the wear and tear that accompanies playing in the NBA at James’ age. Redick himself was drafted three years after James, in 2006, and played until recently turning to broadcasting and coaching. Despite his age, the 39-year-old James continues to consistently average impressive statistics, such as 25 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists each season. Notably, James now plays alongside his son, Bronny James, recently selected by the Lakers in the draft.

To fill in for James and Hachimura, the Lakers will start Max Christie and Cam Reddish. The duo will join D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Anthony Davis in the starting lineup. The Lakers are opting for strategic matchups, given the Suns’ tactics, as they are starting 6-foot-6 guard Devin Booker at center and Kevin Durant at power forward.

The Lakers are missing four key frontcourt players due to injuries: Christian Koloko, Christian Wood, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Armel Traore will not participate in the upcoming games. Wood’s absence is expected to extend through the early part of November.

Meanwhile, the Suns will field their full-strength lineup. Phoenix’s starting lineup includes new point guard Tyus Jones, shooting guard Bradley Beal, small forward Booker, power forward Durant, and center Jusuf Nurkic.