LeBron James’ preseason is over. The next time he takes the court for the Los Angeles Lakers will be for the regular season opener on October 22 against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
James did not dress for the Lakers’ preseason matchup against the Phoenix Suns on Thursday night. Lakers coach JJ Redick said his star was resting. Or, as he put it, “DNP: man. Taking it out of Pop’s book.”
For those who don’t understand the reference, San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich once sat down 36-year-old Tim Duncan. during the 2012-13 season and gave the reason why he doesn’t play as “DNP — Old”. (Even if the reference is unfamiliar, though, isn’t it easy to imagine Popovich saying that?)
James will also not play in the Lakers’ preseason finale on Friday against the Golden State Warriors. as reported by TNT’s Jared Greenberg. Why subject him to consecutive games that don’t count?
As I reported about @NBAonTNT – @KingJames The preseason is over; He won’t play tonight and LeBron won’t suit up tomorrow in Golden State. The Lakers are playing the long game, making sure LBJ is rested for his 22nd opening night on Tuesday.
– Jared Greenberg (@JaredSGreenberg) October 18, 2024
The 39-year-old played in three games this preseason, averaging 12 points, 4.3 rebounds and 3.7 assists in 18.3 minutes per game. He shot 46.9% from the floor (and 57.1% from 3).
Sitting out the final two preseason games will give James a full week off before the Lakers’ regular-season opener. That will also mark the start of James’ 22nd NBA season, tying new Hall of Famer Vince Carter for the most games played in league history.