The Los Angeles Lakers face a challenging start to the season with LeBron James sidelined due to a sciatica injury. This setback ends his historic streak of 22 consecutive opening night appearances and places immediate pressure on his co-star, Luka Doncic. For the first time, Doncic has addressed the team’s new reality and the message for the locker room.

Speaking to reporters, Doncic acknowledged James’ absence but was clear about the required mentality. “It’s a big change. He’s a great player. He’s going to help us a lot,” Doncic stated. “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, me and him. But our mentality has got to be next man up.”

When asked if this situation puts more of a load on him personally, Doncic was unequivocal. “No, I don’t view it that way,” he initially said. Pressed further on whether he would have to do more, he corrected himself with a laugh. “I’d have to do a lot.” He added, “I just want to play basketball and relax a little bit more. Whatever it takes to get a win.”

The injury has also disrupted the on-court chemistry Doncic was eager to build with James. He confirmed that while they have been problem-solving off the court, it is not a complete substitute for live action. “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,” Doncic explained.

This message comes from Luka as Shams Charania recently provided detailed context on LeBron’s injury’s origin. 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 had done little basketball activity for over a month before training camp began.

The Lakers are taking a cautious approach with Doncic’s preseason participation following his summer with the Slovenian national team. He is expected to appear in two of the team’s final four exhibition games as the group works to establish its identity ahead of a demanding regular season start. Meanwhile, LeBron’s trade chatter is taking a new turn with analysts expressing their thoughts in reports, about which let’s discuss further.

LeBron James’ latest trade reports revelations

According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, James will be closely evaluating the team’s performance in his absence. “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. This has sparked speculation that a midseason trade request could be possible if the Lakers fail to compete effectively without him.

The Lakers’ early schedule presents an immediate challenge, with eight games in the first 13 days. How the team fares with Luka Doncic leading the way could directly influence James’ future. McMenamin outlined four potential outcomes for the season, including James retiring as a Laker, re-signing in 2026, leaving as a free agent, or requesting a trade before the deadline. A trade demand is seen as a real possibility if winning seems unlikely in Los Angeles.

Any trade would be complex due to James’ no-trade clause, meaning he must approve any deal. Matching his $52.6 million salary would also require a team to send out a significant amount of player contracts in return. Potential destinations like the Cleveland Cavaliers or Dallas Mavericks would face major financial hurdles to acquire him, limiting his options if he decides to move.

The situation remains fluid, with James focused on the present. “I don’t know when the end is, but I know it’s a lot sooner than later,” he said during media day. The Lakers’ performance in the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether his historic career continues in purple and gold or takes an unexpected turn.