The NBA season starts soon, with the Los Angeles Lakers opening their campaign against the Golden State Warriors.
However, the LA Lakers received troubling news approximately two weeks before the October 21, 2025 tip-off.
Superstar LeBron James suffered a back injury that will force him to miss the start of the 2025-26 season.
James previously missed Lakers offseason activities due to fitness concerns, making this latest setback particularly concerning.
Photo by Jevone Moore/Icon Sportswire via Getty ImagesLA Lakers lineup prediction against the Warriors with Jarred Vanderbilt replacing LeBron James
Head coach JJ Redick must now construct a starting lineup without LeBron for the Warriors matchup.
The Lakers’ improved roster depth compared to last season should help absorb LeBron’s absence, particularly with Luka Doncic capable of running the offense.
Given the Warriors’ multiple offensive threats, Jarred Vanderbilt represents the ideal replacement for this specific matchup. His defensive versatility addresses the challenge Golden State presents.
The optimal lineup would feature Luka Doncic at point guard, Austin Reaves at shooting guard, Rui Hachimura at small forward, Vanderbilt at power forward, and DeAndre Ayton at center.
PGLuka DoncicSGAustin ReavesSFRui HachimuraPFJarred VanderbiltCDe‘Andre Ayton
This configuration balances offensive capabilities with defensive stability.
Photo by Keith Birmingham/MediaNews Group/Pasadena Star-News via Getty ImagesSmall-ball alternatives provide tactical flexibility for JJ Redick
However, if Redick prefers gambling with a small-ball lineup, particularly if the Warriors deploy similar strategies, Marcus Smart offers an intriguing alternative.
The former Boston Celtics guard could occupy the shooting guard spot, moving Reaves to small forward and Hachimura to power forward.
If Redick prioritizes shooting, Jake LaRavia provides another option. Pairing LaRavia with Reaves creates a dual-sharpshooter lineup that maximizes perimeter spacing.
While the Lakers would prefer James healthy, his absence provides valuable opportunities for Redick.
The situation allows him to evaluate which players he can trust in different scenarios and roles, building depth knowledge that could prove crucial later in the season.