LeBron James just drew a line in the sand.
Until now, head coach JJ Redick used to say that he is giving James a break after every game so that he remains healthy for crucial matches.
Despite a tough January schedule, that decision remains unchanged. But there was still some hope that the 41-year-old might start to join his teammates in every Lakers game soon.
But the King’s has confirmed that he is done playing every night. At 41, with more minutes on his odometer than anyone in NBA history, he’s calling his own shots on back-to-backs.
LeBron James Banks Load Management for Rest of Season
The game against Atlanta will be the second night of a back-to-back for the Lakers, as they lost to the Sacramento Kings 124-112 on Monday night. Now James’ availability for Tuesday’s Hawks matchup is in doubt since he hasn’t suited up for both ends of a back-to-back all season.
Following the Kings’ loss, LeBron addressed his status with reporters. The future Hall of Famer spoke honestly, reminding everyone not to expect him on consecutive nights. He had to remind folks he’s 41 now, even if he looked very competitive on the court.
“I’m 41 years old. Every back-to-back for the rest of the season is TBD,” James said. “I am 41. I got the most minutes in NBA history. Bank it right now.”
LeBron James on his status for Wednesday’s game:
“Every back-to-back for the rest of the season is TBD. I am 41. I got the most minutes in NBA history. Bank it right now.”
(via @mcten)pic.twitter.com/8D9DMq0nwI
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) January 7, 2026
The clear-cut declaration came after James dropped 22 points against the Kings in his 33 minutes of play, which is, frankly, not that bad for someone dealing with sciatica in his right side and arthritis in his left foot joint.
Redick told reporters that LeBron’s foot becomes sore after games, which is why the Lakers cancelled morning shootarounds. The team is protecting their 41-year-old franchise player by limiting daily wear and tear.
Even James’ agent Rich Paul declared in November last year, “Look, at 41 years of age, I hope he is not playing back-to-backs.”
So, when the schedule shows consecutive games like this time from Kings to Hawks, his status automatically shifts to questionable. That’s the new normal in Year 23 for Bron.
