PALM DESERT, Calif. — LeBron James will not play in the Los Angeles Lakers’ preseason opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, sources told ESPN. James, 39, will be sidelined for rest but is expected to play in LA’s second game against the Phoenix Suns on Sunday at Agrisure Arena.
Lakers coach JJ Redick said James and Anthony Davis — who have been on a globe-trotting career with Team USA, culminating in a gold medal at the Paris Olympics — will both play at some point this weekend.
James’ son, Lakers rookie Brony James, could see his first season action Friday as Redick plans to experiment with different lineups during the exhibition schedule.
“Obviously, the nerves are there,” Broney said after Friday morning’s shoot. “It comes with everything. But I’m excited to go out there and learn from the guys that are playing in front of me. And if I get a chance to showcase my game, I’m going to do it the best I can. With my ability.”
Brony said he’s open to hearing feedback from his dad if he gets into the game, just like LeBron sat courtside during Brony’s high school, AAU and college games.
“Pretty much the same thing but now we’re teammates,” Broney said. “So, it’s going to be more in-depth about sports and things like that. So yeah, I’m open to that.”
