After a dramatic offseason, the NBA preseason is finally here for basketball fans to see their stars on the court back again. Even though the outcome hardly matters, it does set a tone for what’s to come early in the regular season. And for the Los Angeles Lakers, the start wasn’t really ideal. In their opening game on October 3rd, they fell 103-81 against the Phoenix Suns. The team with two superstars in their roster saw an unfortunate setback. Are they coming back to take back the Lakers’ glory?

Despite the lopsided result, it was still a useful first outing for JJ Redick’s group, who are easing into new rotations and roles before the real action begins. The Lakers will get another chance to find their footing when they face the Golden State Warriors on Sunday at Chase Center. But will LeBron James play tonight? LeBron James will not be participating in the Los Angeles Lakers’ preseason game against the Golden State Warriors tonight. Reason? To worry about.

James’ decision to sit out the preseason games stems from a glute injury sustained during the offseason. Even before the previous game, HC Redick said King James has “nerve irritation in the glute”. While the injury is not labeled severe, the Lakers are taking a precautionary stance to prevent any misfortune, even before the season begins. James is entering his 23rd NBA season, aiming to be fully prepared for the regular season opener on October 21.

Even though the two LA stars haven’t played, the preseason game opener saw a few bright spots in the loss. Austin Reaves, whose spot has been talked about in the offseason, led the offensive load with 20 points, while rookie guard Bronny James added eight points in 24 minutes, hitting 1 of 8 attempted three-pointers. New additions made during the offseason were tested, too.

Deandre Ayton (1) and Jake LaRavia (7) 0started but struggled to impact the scoreboard. Rui Hachimura, on the other hand, landed 11 points. JJ Redick said before the game that both LeBron and Doncic are expected to play later in the preseason, ideally in what he called a “dress rehearsal” before opening night.

Additionally, the Lakers’ preseason schedule will provide opportunities for players to step up and showcase their abilities. After tonight’s game against the Warriors, the team will face the Golden State Warriors again on October 12. Subsequent games include contests against the Phoenix Suns, Dallas Mavericks, and Sacramento Kings, culminating in a final preseason game on October 17.

Where to watch Lakers vs Warriors preseason game?

The Los Angeles Lakers will take on the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on Sunday, October 5, 2025, in what promises to be an early-season test for both Western Conference contenders. Sadly, the most anticipated showdown between James and Stephen Curry is not taking place. But where are the two teams meeting, and how can one watch them?

Fans can catch the action at 8:30 PM ET via the NBA League Pass. Apart from that, you can watch the game on ESPN or stream it live via FuboTV, which offers a free trial for new subscribers. While the absence of LeBron means the classic James vs. Curry matchup is postponed, the contest still provides a compelling preview of both teams’ depth, strategy, and readiness for the regular season.

So the focus now shifts to how the supporting cast and emerging players like Bronny James perform under pressure. The Warriors, meanwhile, are debuting their preseason with a clean slate at 0-0, though they will be without De’Anthony Melton due to a knee injury. Even Curry and Butler are expected to sit outside. This game marks the Warriors’ first taste of competitive action this preseason, giving Coach Steve Kerr a chance to test lineups and integrate new additions. Fans are definitely excited to watch, and if you are wondering where? Then here’s the answer.