LeBron James Limited at Lakers Camp, Eyeing Opening Night

LeBron James, entering his 23rd NBA season and turning 41 in December, could be limited at the start of Lakers training camp as he continues to recover from a Grade 2 MCL sprain and a nagging nerve irritation in his glute. Coaches and James’s camp have instructed an “overly cautious” approach and are planning a longer ramp-up to preserve him for a hoped-for playoff run, with coach JJ Redick saying they are “playing the long game.” The Lakers’ goal is for James to be ready for opening night against the Golden State Warriors, and he may appear in at least one preseason game though his participation remains uncertain. James attended media day and will remain engaged with team strategy even if he isn’t on the floor. The team will closely monitor his workload across six preseason games and the early regular season given his recent foot, ankle, calf and knee issues and accumulated wear-and-tear from a record-setting career.