James is expected to miss the entire preseason! Lakers' plan revealed: preparing for the season opener against the Warriors

On October 8th Beijing time, according to renowned reporter Shams, James is anticipated to sit out all preseason games as the Lakers want him ready for the regular season opener on October 22nd against the Golden State Warriors. Earlier reports indicated James missed the first two preseason games due to a nerve irritation in his hip.

Shams stated: “I’ve learned that LeBron James has started increasing his training intensity and is doing some work on the court. However, the current expectation remains that he may miss the entire preseason. The team’s goal is to have him fully prepared for the October 21st season opener against the Golden State Warriors. So he has been doing more on-court drills and participating in more basketball-related activities, but whether he will play in any game before the regular season begins is still uncertain.”

Since the Lakers began training camp, they have played two preseason games, but several key players have not appeared. Luka Doncic has yet to play to maintain good condition after competing in the EuroBasket this summer; as for James, who is nearly 41 years old, he is entering his 23rd professional season.

Meanwhile, Kleber suffered a minor quadriceps injury during the team’s first practice, and Marcus Smart is being cautiously managed due to Achilles tendinitis. Rookie A.D. Diero has also not played yet, having missed the Summer League because of a knee injury.

Before the final four preseason games next week, the Lakers have a full week of training. The team originally hoped to have all core players participate in at least one game before the opener, but if James does not play, this plan cannot be fulfilled.

However, considering James is about to turn 41, there is no need to risk him playing in the preseason and potentially getting injured. Having experienced countless challenges throughout his career, he knows how to prepare his body properly and is expected to be ready for the Lakers’ season opener against the Golden State Warriors on October 22nd.

James previously spoke about what he believes is the key to the Lakers’ success: “The key is focusing on the details every single day. We have to get the details right. The Western Conference is extremely competitive. Every game in the league is tough, so we must pay attention to detail in all aspects, both offense and defense. We hold each other accountable and strive to play championship-level basketball every day. But does that always translate to wins? No, it doesn’t. This is a league where results define success; even if you play well, you might not win. Sometimes you win despite playing poorly. That’s part of the game. But we must focus on the details, and I believe we can do that.”

Notably, James’ previously teased “Decision 2” was revealed early this morning. It turned out to be the announcement of his co-branded cognac with Hennessy, not a retirement plan.