LeBron James reportedly ruled out of Lakers first preseason game against Timberwolves
LeBron James has been ruled out for the Lakers preseason game against the Timberwolves, as they seek to limit his minutes in his 22nd season.
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LeBron James sidelined for the Lakers’ preseason opener
The wait is almost over and to usher in the new season, the Los Angeles Lakers will kick off their preseason when they host the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, fans will be disappointed as they will be without their star player, LeBron James, who has been ruled out for the game.
The decision might be a reason to not overwork LeBron James who will be entering his 22nd season at 39 years old, as the Lakers are opting to limit his minutes during the preseason. Despite his age, the King remains a dominant force in the court.
LeBron James will be held out of the Lakers’ first preseason game Friday vs MIN, sources told ESPN. Lakers coach JJ Redick said Thursday that LeBron and Anthony Davis would both play at some point this weekend. LAL plays again in Palm Springs on Sunday vs PHX.
ESPN’s Dave McMenamin wrote on X
LeBron James will be held out of the Lakers’ first preseason game Friday vs MIN, sources told ESPN. Lakers coach JJ Redick said Thursday that LeBron and Anthony Davis would both play at some point this weekend. LAL plays again in Palm Springs on Sunday vs PHX
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) October 4, 2024
He was so impressive last season that he earned his 20th NBA All-Star selection where he averaged 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, 8.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. In his absence, there are other players on the roster who will have the chance to step up and log more minutes.
For their preseason outing, the Purple and Gold will play a total of six preseason games before opening the regular season on October 22, again against the Timberwolves. Fans of the T-Wolves might just get the opportunity to see new signing Karl-Anthony Towns in action.
Bronny James admits to feeling nervous ahead of preseason debut
Although LeBron James has been ruled out, his son Bronny James is expected to see some minutes. And he is embracing the excitement as well as the nerves ahead of his first NBA preseason game.
Of course, there are nerves. Comes with everything. But I’m just excited to go out there and learn and learn from the people playing in front of me. And if I get a chance to showcase my game, then I’m going to do that to the best of my ability.
Bronny James said to the media
Bronny James on possible preseason debut: “Of course, there are nerves. Firsts with everything. I’m just excited to go out there and learn and learn from the people playing in front of me.” pic.twitter.com/nTDDjZgKKA
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) October 4, 2024
There’s so much excitement in the air as he will eventually form the NBA’s first father-son duo, however, Friday will mark Bronny’s first true taste of NBA action. He is expected to play a bench role for the Lakers during the 2024-25 season, but a strong preseason could increase his chances of earning more playing time.
While the expectations are much higher, for Bronny, the preseason will be crucial in preparing him for the demanding NBA schedule. And a chance to prove he deserves more play time in the NBA than the G-League.
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Ubong Archibong
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