Rest wasn’t something LeBron James or Anthony Davis seemed to demand despite their hectic international commitments before the season. The star Lakers tandem was thrilled to begin the era of JJ Redick. The first taste of his spells and tactics will be on display during their preseason opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday. However, they will be without one of their leading talismans.

According to Dave McMenamin, King James will be withheld from participating in the preseason opener. During a recent ESPN interview, Redick claimed that both James and Davis would play over the weekend despite their draining Olympics. With the to-be 40-year-old out for the Wolves clash, he will most likely be available on Sunday when they take on the Phoenix Suns.

It’s similar to last season. LeBron James did not play in the preseason opener last year either. However, there are no other health concerns within the Lakers camp. The remaining starting lineup of AD, Hachimura, D’Angelo Russell, and Austin Reaves are all available for the clash against the tough and driven Timberwolves.

In his 22nd season, management will be crucial for LeBron James. The four-time MVP didn’t have much rest after the postseason having played an MVP role for Team USA. Yet, he has been enthusiastic in practice sessions, being joyous over the time he gets to share with his son Bronny James.

A riveting season awaits for the LA Lakers and LeBron James

It was just two years ago that LeBron James posted a video from the Lakers training facility. He had both of his sons Bryce and Bronny working out with him. The joy of that moment has intensified a lot this season, as he shares the stage with his eldest as a professional. “Just pure joy, to be honest, to be able to come to work every day, put in the work, hard work with your son every day” he recalls.

In terms of the Lakers’ plans, they are still after glory, chasing an 18th franchise title. JJ Redick has maximized efficiency and instilled great relationships with his players. D’Angelo Russell who in the past has found it difficult to form a connection is in awe of the former sharpshooter’s basketball intellect. The entire Laker contingent seems together and united, and it stems from the auspicious feelings reverberating in the building.

Redick wants James to savor these moments. “It’s surreal” he claims. Even the 39 year old isn’t trying to burden himself with expectations for this season. At the same time though, his thirst for winning again is very much palpable. Even though aging, he has reassured the basketball world that he is still ‘that guy’.

“I can help a big part of a team win the ultimate and whatever”, he told ESPN. Having Bronny alongside him makes the journey a lot sweeter than it would be. But his standards haven’t waned in any way. The Lakers’ target this season is to cultivate that culture while also intertwining James’ historic season.

Preseason will be the first trailer of JJ Redick’s dynamic schemes and tactics. Every player seems to be blown away by his ways of working. But will it translate to the NBA floor? Let us know what you think in the comments below.