The Philadelphia 76ers will begin their preseason without the player who generated the most excitement during their offseason.
LeBron James will not play Monday night when Philadelphia hosts the defending NBA champion New York Knicks at Xfinity Mobile Arena. The 41-year-old forward will have to wait to make his Sixers debut after joining the team in free agency this summer.
James is one of seven Philadelphia players ruled out for the preseason opener, alongside Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Anfernee Simons, Dominick Barlow, Adem Bona and Tacko Fall. Jaylen Brown and VJ Edgecombe are the only members of the projected starting lineup available.
LeBron James’ Absence in Knicks vs 76ers Is Not Injury-Related
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James is being held out as Philadelphia manages his workload ahead of his 24th NBA season rather than because of a newly reported injury. The Sixers intend to be careful with his minutes and availability, particularly given his age and the length of the upcoming regular season. James also said Saturday that he wanted to play in preseason but did not want to “overdo” it (h/t Adam Aaronson of The Philly Voice).
ESPN’s Dave McMenamin provided some insight into James’ physical condition ahead of the regular season. McMenamin reported Monday that James is dealing with chronic arthritis in his left foot, while his lower back is also receiving attention after sciatica caused him to miss the first month of last season. His longtime trainer, Mike Mancias, is giving both areas particular attention during James’ daily routine.
Those issues are not necessarily new developments as James missed the early portion of last season for the same reasons. He played 60 games and averaged 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists for the Los Angeles Lakers.
When Will LeBron James Make his Sixers Debut?
There is no confirmed date for James’ Philadelphia debut yet. The Sixers have four preseason games remaining after Monday’s opener, giving the team several opportunities to introduce him before the regular season begins Oct. 20 against the Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
Philadelphia’s decision also keeps its preferred lineup of James, Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown and VJ Edgecombe from sharing the floor in the preseason opener. The Sixers can afford to take a cautious approach now while focusing on having their veteran star healthy when the games begin to matter.
