LeBron James is set to sit out the final two preseason games as he prepares for his 22nd NBA season. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar will be back on the court for the regular season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 22. The 39-year-old continues to be a dominant force, even as his career inches toward the historic 22-season mark.
LeBron Sits Out: “DNP — Old”
James’ absence from the Lakers’ preseason game against the Phoenix Suns didn’t come as a surprise. Lakers head coach JJ Redick made light of the decision, jokingly marking James’ absence with a classic NBA reference: “DNP — old.” It’s a nod to San Antonio Spurs’ legendary coach Gregg Popovich, who once cited Tim Duncan’s age as a reason for resting him during the 2012-13 season.
- LeBron sat out for rest, following Popovich’s playful “DNP — old” tradition.
- At 39, James is still a pivotal figure, but the Lakers are cautious about his workload.
- James played three preseason games, averaging 12 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists.
The decision to rest James makes perfect sense. There’s no reason to risk injury in games that don’t count, and the upcoming season promises to be another marathon for the NBA’s oldest active player.
Looking Back at LeBron’s Preseason Performance
Even with limited playing time, LeBron James delivered his usual impressive performances in the preseason. In the three games he played, James showcased his well-rounded skillset and efficiency.
Here’s a breakdown of his preseason stats:
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Points per game | 12.0 |
| Rebounds | 4.3 |
| Assists | 3.7 |
| Shooting % | 46.9% from the floor |
| 3-Point % | 57.1% from beyond arc |
At nearly 40 years old, LeBron’s numbers continue to speak for themselves. While the preseason is just a tune-up, James’ performance still highlights that he’s far from slowing down. His ability to shoot from deep at 57.1% during the preseason also signals that he remains a serious offensive threat from all areas of the court.
LeBron and the Lakers: The Big Picture
As LeBron prepares to enter his 22nd season, the stakes are high for the Lakers. Not only is James chasing history—he’s tied with Vince Carter for the most seasons played in NBA history—but the Lakers also have championship aspirations. With LeBron at the helm and a solid supporting cast, the team looks to return to the NBA Finals.
- This season marks James’ 22nd, tying him with Vince Carter for the most in NBA history.
- The Lakers will open their season against the Timberwolves on October 22.
- The team has reloaded with talent, and expectations for a deep playoff run are high.
The Lakers know that balancing LeBron’s workload throughout the season is key. While James is still incredibly productive, managing his minutes will be vital to keep him fresh for the playoffs. JJ Redick and the Lakers coaching staff have made it clear that they intend to carefully monitor LeBron’s usage, ensuring that his body can handle the grind of a full season and beyond.
Historic Season Ahead: What’s at Stake for LeBron?
LeBron James has always been more than just a basketball player—he’s a cultural icon, a global ambassador for the sport, and a force both on and off the court. As he embarks on his 22nd season, the narrative is shifting from “How long can he maintain this level of excellence?” to “Can he defy time for just a little longer?”
In this upcoming season, LeBron stands on the brink of adding more history to his already legendary career:
- He’s tied with Vince Carter for most NBA seasons played (22).
- LeBron continues to climb the leaderboard in all-time stats, including points, assists, and minutes.
- With another strong season, he could solidify his case as the greatest player in NBA history.
But for LeBron, it’s never just about personal achievements. His focus remains on leading the Lakers back to the top. After a disappointing playoff exit last season, James and the team are on a mission to reclaim the title.
The excitement builds as the regular season approaches. And while LeBron might be taking a much-needed rest now, fans can expect the King to be in full force when the lights shine bright on opening night.
