LeBron James Injury Update: Will Los Angeles Lakers Star Play vs Memphis Grizzlies?

Veteran guard-forward LeBron James will **not** play in the upcoming game against the Memphis Grizzlies as he continues to manage a right-side sciatica condition. The Los Angeles Lakers announced he will be sidelined.

The absence comes after the Lakers revealed on October 9 that James would be out at least 3-4 weeks while dealing with nerve irritation in his glute leading to the sciatica.

Key Detail Section: LeBron James Injury Update

James is sidelined due to right-side sciatica, a condition involving irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve running from the lower back down the leg. The Lakers confirmed he will miss the start of the 2025-26 season while the injury is re-evaluated in three to four weeks.

Head coach JJ Redick admitted that sciatica can be “tricky” and did *not* guarantee a precise return date for James.

The matchup vs the Grizzlies marks what would have been James’s 52nd regular-season game vs Memphis. Historically he averages about 25.9 points, 7.9 assists and 7.7 rebounds per game in those match-ups, and holds a 34-17 win-loss record.

With James unavailable, the Lakers’ rotation and game plan shift significantly. Supporting players must step up to cover his scoring, playmaking and leadership roles. His absence also delays the full debut of the anticipated “big three” featuring James, Luka Dončić and the supporting cast.

Analysis: What James’s Absence Means for the Lakers and the Matchup

Short-term, the Lakers will need to adapt quickly without James’s presence. Their offensive continuity, defensive assignments and late-game execution are all impacted. Offensively, the burden falls heavier on Dončić and other scoring options.

In the broader context, James being out for an extended stretch at this stage of his 23rd NBA season raises questions about long-term load management. The Lakers may choose a cautious approach given his age and recent durability.

For the Grizzlies and the NBA Cup group stage in which both teams are competing, Memphis may try to exploit the opportunity of playing the Lakers without their veteran leader. However, the Lakers still pose a threat given their depth and championship experience.

In summary: LeBron James’s injury update means he will not play against the Grizzlies. His return remains uncertain. The Lakers must adjust accordingly while aligning their long-term strategy around his health and availability.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Will LeBron James play vs Memphis Grizzlies?

No, he is out due to right-side sciatica and will miss the game.

Q2: What is the nature of LeBron James’s injury?

He is suffering from sciatica, nerve irritation in his glute/low-back area extending down his leg, affecting his ability to practice and play.

Q3: When is LeBron James expected to return?

The timeline is fluid. Originally 3-4 weeks, but the coach has indicated a return may come in the second or third week of November at earliest.

Q4: How does this absence impact the Lakers?

It forces the Lakers to operate without their leader, shifts offensive and defensive demands onto others, and may affect team chemistry and performance early in the season.