The Los Angeles Lakers will kick off their preseason on Friday against the Minnesota Timberwolves, but their star player, LeBron James, won’t be taking part.
Entering his 22nd NBA season, James is expected to sit out of the Lakers’ first exhibition game, according to a report by ESPN’s Dave McMenamin on X.
“Sources told ESPN that LeBron James will not play in the Lakers’ preseason opener against Minnesota on Friday,” McMenamin posted. “However, Lakers coach JJ Redick said Thursday that both LeBron and Anthony Davis are expected to play later this weekend. The Lakers have another game on Sunday against the Phoenix Suns in Palm Springs.”
This suggests that James’ first preseason appearance will likely happen on Sunday when the Lakers face the Suns. The game against the Timberwolves will take place at Acrisure Arena in Palm Springs, with a 10:30 PM EST tip-off.
Lakers’ new head coach, J.J. Redick, confirmed that both James and Davis should see some playing time during the weekend.