LeBron James to Miss Lakers Preseason Game Due to Age, Says Coach

Darvin Ham Cites Caution as Reason for Sitting Star Forward

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James will not participate in the team's upcoming preseason game due to his age, according to head coach Darvin Ham.

Ham told reporters that the decision was made out of caution, as James is still recovering from an offseason foot injury.

“He’s not participating just because of his age,” Ham said. “We’re just being smart.”

James, 37, is entering his 20th NBA season. He has missed a total of 26 games due to injury over the past two seasons.

The Lakers are scheduled to play their first preseason game on October 3 against the Sacramento Kings.

James is expected to be ready for the start of the regular season on October 18 against the Golden State Warriors.

The Lakers are hoping to bounce back from a disappointing 2021-22 season, in which they finished 33-49 and missed the playoffs.

James averaged 30.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game last season.

He is one of the greatest players in NBA history and is widely considered to be the best player of his generation.