The Los Angeles Lakers started their preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves without their superstar, LeBron James. Fans have eagerly anticipated seeing LeBron and his son share the court for the past few months, but it looks like they’ll have to wait a bit longer to catch him in action this preseason.
In LeBron’s absence, the Lakers showed off their youthful potential. Two first-round picks, Austin Reaves and Dalton Knecht, scored 16 points each to lead the squad. Furthermore, Bronny James, LeBron James’s son, played well after the first quarter.
Unfortunately, their efforts were not enough to secure a victory on Friday, as the Timberwolves triumphed with a score of 124-107. Though they lost, the Lakers have every chance to shine once Anthony Davis and LeBron James join the team.
Fans won’t have to wait long to see the legend back in action. The legend is expected to play against Phoenix on Sunday, which is also Bronny’s 20th birthday.
Sunday’s game will also likely feature Anthony Davis, who, along with James, is anticipated to participate in at least one preseason game this weekend. The Lakers’ new coach explained why the team chose not to have LeBron play in Friday’s game.
JJ Redick shares why LeBron James sat out the preseason opener
Lakers coach JJ Redick told reporters on Thursday that LeBron James and Anthony Davis, who just won gold medals with Team USA at the Paris Olympics, will play this weekend, but not the preseason opening. Redick explained that the decision was to manage LeBron’s workload after a tough training camp and a busy summer.
ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported on Twitter, “LeBron James will be held out of the Lakers’ first preseason game Friday vs MIN, sources told ESPN. Lakers coach JJ Redick said Thursday that LeBron and Anthony Davis would both play at some point this weekend. LAL plays again in Palm Springs on Sunday vs PHX.”
The 40-year-old coach said that the coaching team is still debating the player rotations and minutes in an effort to find a balance between training and recovery. This plan is all about making sure the team’s top players stay fit and prepared for the upcoming main season’s challenges.
