LeBron Misses Opener; Book Says Bronny Posted Tweet

LeBron James missed the Lakers' season opener for the first time in his 23-year career due to sciatica as Los Angeles fell 119-109 to the Golden State Warriors; he and son Bronny — who was also benched — shared a light moment on the bench. A new book by Yaron Weitzman reports that Bronny posted Shams Charania's shock Luka Dončić–Anthony Davis trade tweet in the Lakers' group chat, prompting Anthony Davis's stunned reaction and LeBron's terse "WTF." Off the court, ESPN's Brian Windhorst named Kyrie Irving as LeBron's best teammate based on fit and Finals success, while Paul Pierce argued LeBron's roster-elevating influence and longevity give him an edge over Michael Jordan in impact on winning. LeBron has also built cross-sport relationships and served as a mentor, exemplified by his friendship with Falcons running back Bijan Robinson, who credits LeBron with early encouragement and career advice. Together, the injury absence, locker-room revelations and ongoing GOAT debate underscore LeBron's continued centrality to sports narratives as the Lakers adjust without him for now.