LeBron James Approaches New NBA Season with Caution
LeBron James is navigating through unfamiliar ground as he gears up for his 23rd season in the NBA.
According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, the Los Angeles Lakers are being particularly careful as they prepare physically for the upcoming season with the 40-year-old star. “LeBron’s camp has advised the Lakers to exercise extra caution with him,” McMenamin reported ahead of the team’s first practice on Tuesday.
Initially, James was listed as a “limited participant” for practice, but he ultimately did not take to the court.
Head Coach JJ Redick mentioned, “James is dealing with some minor stimulation in his glute.” It’s not surprising, considering the wear and tear from 22 years in the NBA.
Last season, James played in only three of LA’s six preseason games, and Redick thinks that might have been a bit too much for him at this point in his career. “It’s a gradual process leading up to the first game,” he explained. “This is uncharted territory in his 23rd year.”
The four-time MVP averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds for the Lakers last season, shooting 51.3% from the field and 37.6% from beyond the arc in 70 games.
He managed to play in the first 23 regular-season games but faced a significant slump and took an eight-day break in early December, needing to rest his left foot.
Unfortunately, James sustained a Grade 2 MCL sprain during the Lakers’ Game 5 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the playoffs.
In his second year as head coach, Redick made it clear that keeping their star players healthy is crucial for the Lakers this season. “We’re focusing on the long game with LeBron,” he remarked.
James himself shared with ESPN that he’s not currently where he wants to be in terms of conditioning, but he’s looking forward to the process of getting back to form.
The Lakers are set to have six preseason games, beginning this Friday, as they aim for their 18th Championship starting on October 21st against the Golden State Warriors at Crypto.com Arena.
