LeBron James will not be on the floor for the Los Angeles Lakers’ first game, marking a rare absence as he begins his 23rd NBA season. The Lakers launch their regular-season campaign at home against the Golden State Warriors on October 21, followed by an intense stretch of eight games in 13 days.
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LeBron James will miss opening night of his record 23rd NBA season
Photo by Wcvb
Key Takeaways:
- LeBron James is missing the Lakers’ opening night of his 23rd NBA season.
- The Lakers begin their regular season at home on October 21.
- Golden State Warriors serve as the team’s first opponent.
- Los Angeles faces eight games in a taxing 13-day run starting October 24.
- Story originally published by Wcvb on October 10, 2025.
The Missing Star
LeBron James, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history, will miss the opening night of his record 23rd NBA season. This news, reported by Greg Beacham of the Associated Press, comes as a surprise to many fans who have followed James’s illustrious career over more than two decades.
Home Opener Details
The Los Angeles Lakers are set to begin their regular season at home on October 21 against the Golden State Warriors. According to the original report, “The Lakers open the regular season at home Oct. 21 against Golden State,” signaling a high-profile matchup to kick off the season—albeit without James on the court.
A Packed October Schedule
Immediately following the opener, the Lakers enter a demanding stretch of games. “They have eight games in a 13-day span beginning Oct. 24,” the report notes. Below is a brief table outlining the key dates:
| Key Dates | Event |
|---|---|
| Oct. 21 | Regular season home opener vs. Golden State (no LeBron) |
| Oct. 24 onward | Eight games in a 13-day span |
This compressed schedule will test the Lakers’ depth and early-season preparedness.
Historical Context
James’s absence on opening night is particularly notable given the milestone nature of his 23rd season in the NBA. While details about his return remain unclear, his eventual presence could spark the Lakers in their quest for a strong campaign. Fans now wait to see the team’s performance as they juggle a tough early slate without their star forward.
