LeBron James Has Always Admired Luka Doncic

LeBron James’ admiration for his Los Angeles Lakers teammate Luka Doncic is nothing new. In a 2022 episode of The Shop: Uninterrupted, he explained why the Slovenian was his favorite player in the league. 

LeBron said he admired Doncic’s size, his ability to handle the ball, and especially his court vision. He described how Doncic could control a game without even shooting, simply by dictating the pace of play and reading every defensive reaction. 

James explained that Doncic understands how to attack off screens, use his strength to turn corners, and manipulate defenders with timing and footwork.

LeBron Sidelined With Sciatica to Start the Season

As reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania, LeBron is missing the start of the 2025-2026 season due to right-side sciatica, which was expected to keep him out for three to four weeks. Sciatica is a nerve irritation that affects the lower back and gluteal area. The estimated return window is between late November and early December.

Head coach JJ Redick told reporters that the team was aware LeBron had been dealing with this nerve issue and hopes he can return soon. He added that it is a complicated injury that will not change their overall training plan, but the starting lineup during LeBron’s absence remains uncertain.

Redick Searched for Solutions Without His Leader

LeBron and Luka, the Lakers’ star duo, did not appear in the preseason, so Redick was not been able to test rotations or build chemistry with recent additions like Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart.

With James expected to be out for several weeks, Redick confirmed he was working on lineups both with and without him to maintain rhythm and consistency. He mentioned that it is something he has been considering in recent days.

Still, Redick said LeBron remains active during his recovery process. He has been on the court daily, continuing to work, and his situation has not disrupted team practices, although tactical adjustments have not yet been implemented.

The Lakers opened their season on October 21 against the Warriors.

Redick needs to rely on Doncic, Austin Reaves, Ayton, and Smart to keep the team competitive.

It is not the start the Lakers had envisioned, nor the one James hoped for, in what could be one of the final chapters of his legendary career.