LeBron James is sitting out. The King has officially wrapped up his preseason and will not play in the last game. This early exit has left fans anxiously waiting for status updates for the highly anticipated season opener. According to the latest ESPN injury report, LeBron is listed as ‘day-to-day’ along with Rui Hachimura.

The 20x All-Star will “be held out of Friday’s preseason finale against the Warriors,” ESPN reporter Dave McMenamin reported. Moreover, according to McMenamin, Cam Reddish and Max Christie will start for LeBron and Hachimura. While adding that LeBron’s preseason is “finished,” the reporter noted that the star will have a “week’s rest between games heading into the regular-season opener Tuesday against the Minnesota Timberwolves.”

Lakers coach JJ Redick also chimed in about the situation. “I think you have to look at all of the factors and you don’t often get to live in an idealized world in this league, and that’s OK,” Redick said.

“You don’t get to live out things exactly the way you want in this league very often, and that’s fine. We did have a dress rehearsal—game-day shoot around, film session, all of that—today. And we’ll do the same for our pregame. It’s just the first time we’ve done that all preseason. So, we’ve still gotten to do some stuff we’ve wanted to do.”

With a week’s rest, will LeBron play in the opener?

Caution or concern: LeBron James’ status for the opener

According to TNT reporter Jared Greenberg, “The Lakers are playing the long game, ensuring that LBJ is rested for his 22nd opening night on Tuesday.”

Redick is reportedly focused on ensuring that LeBron James is fit for the regular season, especially with LeBron approaching 40 years. The rookie coach is committed to his plans for the Lakers, and maintaining LeBron’s presence throughout the season is crucial. Notably, Redick is not the first coach to adopt this strategy.

“DNP-old,” Redick remarked, referencing San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich. “We’re taking a page out of Pop’s book,” he added. This nod to Popovich, who famously rested 36-year-old Tim Duncan during the 2013-14 season, suggests that fans can expect to see LeBron on the court during the season openers.

LeBron’s limited participation in preseason games should not raise alarm about serious injury concerns; rather, it’s part of a strategic rest plan ahead of the upcoming games. During his preseason appearances, he averaged 12 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 3.0 turnovers in just over 18 minutes per game, showcasing solid form with shooting percentages of 46.9% from the field and 57.1% from three-point range.

What does this mean for LeBron James and the Lakers?

While it’s a bit disappointing that LeBron James won’t participate in the preseason finale, the reasoning behind this decision—allowing him to recuperate and prepare for the season opener—is reassuring. This tactical approach by the Lakers is understandable, given past incidents where minor injuries to key players have derailed their season. With championship contention in sight, effectively managing LeBron’s minutes will be crucial.

Fortunately, with players like Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura stepping up, the Lakers have greater depth than before, enabling them to preserve LeBron without sacrificing early-season success. Dalton Knecht’s brilliant game-winning performance against the Suns and his ability to accurately and regularly score from beyond the arc should add to the team’s and Redick’s confidence going forward.

Rest assured, LeBron is expected to be on the court for the season opener, but it wouldn’t be surprising if his minutes are monitored closely in the early games. Both the Lakers and LeBron are prioritizing the long game, ensuring he is in peak condition for the playoffs and ready for another championship run.