LeBron James Concludes Preseason, Prepares for Lakers’ Regular Season Kick-off

Basketball superstar LeBron James has concluded his preseason preparations. The 39-year-old Los Angeles Lakers champion is now set to enjoy a well-earned week-long break before the regular season’s curtain-raiser on Tuesday against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

James to Skip Lakers’ Final Preseason Games

James was not part of the Lakers’ Thursday face-off against the Phoenix Suns. Confirming this, a source close to James revealed that the talented forward will also be absent from L.A.’s preseason closure on Friday against the Golden State Warriors. This information was initially brought to light during the Lakers-Suns broadcast.

LeBron James: Matching Vince Carter’s Record

As he embarks on his 22nd season, James matches Vince Carter’s record for the most seasons played in the NBA. Lakers’ coach JJ Redick humorously attributed James’ decision to rest to his age during his pregame comments on Thursday. He compared it to the move by San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, who once listed Tim Duncan as being sidelined due to “old age” during a rigorous three-games-in-four-nights schedule back in the 2013-14 season.

LeBron’s Preseason Performance

James concluded the preseason with an average of 12 points per game, shooting at 46.9% accuracy (57.1% from the 3-point line). He also clocked in 4.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 3.0 turnovers in 18.5 minutes across three games. The Lakers’ preseason record stood at 1-2.

Coach Redick’s Preseason Plans Adjusted

Originally, Coach Redick aimed to use Thursday’s game as an extensive preparation for the upcoming Wolves match, allowing players to relax on Friday in San Francisco on the second day of a back-to-back. However, the absence of James and Rui Hachimura (due to calf tightness) against the Suns led to a change in plans.

Redick acknowledged the unpredictable nature of the league, stating, “You don’t often get to live in an idealized world in this league and that’s OK. You don’t get to live out things exactly the way you want in this league very often, and that’s fine.” He added that the team managed to execute a dress rehearsal with a game day shoot around and film session, and will do the same for their pregame, marking it as the first time in the preseason.