LeBron James Out Against Spurs
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James, sidelined with sciatica, will miss another game on Wednesday night as the team faces the San Antonio Spurs. This will be his ninth absence of the season, though he is expected to return in mid-November.
Despite his absence, the Lakers are small home favorites with a promising 6-2 start to the 2025–26 season. The team’s consistency has been notable even without their star leader on the court.
Injury Updates and Lineup Outlook
- Luka Doncic is set to return after missing Monday’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers.
- Austin Reaves remains questionable after sitting out one game, but his return could further strengthen the Lakers’ lineup.
Betting Impact and Player Props
With James on the sidelines, bettors are turning their attention to other key players in the Lakers’ rotation. According to DraftKings Sportsbook, Los Angeles maintains a slight edge in odds at home.
Earlier today, I shared why Reaves is a solid prop target against the Spurs with James out of the lineup in SI Betting's best props column: This season, Austin Reaves is averaging 9.3 assists per game across seven appearances for the Lakers, although he is listed as questionable for tonight’s game.
As the Lakers await their captain’s return, the team’s cohesion and depth continue to shape an impressive early-season narrative.
Author’s Summary
LeBron James remains out with sciatica as the Lakers, powered by Doncic’s return and Reaves’s potential comeback, look to maintain their strong start against the Spurs.