The Lakers face a challenging start to the 2025-26 season, and LeBron James sitting out the curtain-raiser isn’t helping whatsoever. Sidelined because of a sciatica injury, this setback ends the Akron Hammer’s historic streak of 22 consecutive opening night appearances, placing pressure on his co-star, Luka Doncic. For the first time, though, the Slovenian addressed the LA team’s ‘new mentality’ with a special message for the locker room.

Speaking to reporters, Luka Doncic acknowledged King James’ absence, but he showcased immense clarity of thought. “It’s a big change. He’s a great player. He’s going to help us a lot. But at the end of the day, our mentality needs to be next man up. We’ve got a group of guys. They’re practicing. Hopefully, LeBron can join us as soon as possible. Obviously, need him. But our mentality has got to be next man up,” he stated.

When asked if this situation puts a greater burden on him personally, Luka Doncic said, “No, I don’t view it that way.”

When the hoopster was pressed further to answer whether he would have to do more on the court, he quickly said with a smirk, “I’d have to do a lot. “I just want to play basketball and relax a little bit more. Whatever it takes to get a win.”

Admit it or not, the sciatica issue has disrupted the on-court chemistry Luka Doncic was eager to build with LeBron James. The Slovenian star explained, “Yeah, of course. But it’s not everything about on the court. It’s about chemistry, obviously. So obviously, now it’s a little more off the court. But while we practice this week, we’re talking a lot about it.”

Shams Charania recently provided some detailed context on the Chosen One’s injury, putting a ‘start date’ to it. He reported that the nerve issue first developed during an on-court workout in late July or early August. “It’s now two and a half months and counting that he’s had to deal with it and manage it,” Charania explained, noting James has reportedly done very little basketball activity over the offseason.

On the other hand, JJ Redick and Co. are being cautious with Luka Doncic’s preseason participation following his strenuous summer with the Slovenian national team. But he is now expected to appear in two of the team’s final four exhibition games as the tight-knit group works to establish its identity ahead of a demanding regular season. Meanwhile, Bron’s trade chatter has suddenly, yet unexpectedly, taken a new turn…

LeBron James’ future outlook and possibilities with/without the Lakers

According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, LeBron James will closely evaluate the team’s performance in his absence, reportedly for personal gain in the midterm. “LeBron’s gonna be watching this team while he’s out. And if while he is out, they are struggling, that could lead to the next step that we could see at some point this season,” McMenamin said, sparking widespread speculation that a midseason move could be on the cards.

The Lakers’ early schedule presents an immediate challenge, with eight games in the first 13 days. So, the pressure is on.

Here are four potential outcomes that McMenamin outlined, including the LA veteran retiring as a Laker (Pelinka once said he’d “love” for it to happen), re-signing in 2026 on a high deal (likely, I think), leaving as a free agent, or requesting a trade or buyout in February.

Any trade would be complex because of LeBron James’ no-trade clause, meaning he must approve every deal. Matching his $52.6 million salary would also require an interested front office to offer a significant amount of players, future picks, and moving pieces in return. Potential destinations like the Cleveland Cavaliers or Dallas Mavericks would face major financial hurdles in acquiring him, limiting his options…

“I don’t know when the end is, but I know it’s a lot sooner than later,” LeBron James said on Media Day.

Who’s to say the King ends up retiring and then takes up a coaching job? Left-field, I know, but never say never.