LeBron James will not play in the Lakers’ opener against the Timberwolves – Orange County Register

PALM DESERT – Anyone hoping to see the first NBA father-son duo share the floor will have to wait at least one more game.

Lakers star LeBron James will not be available for the team’s preseason opener Friday against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Acrisure Arena, which was first reported by ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.

James, 39, is expected to be available for Sunday’s preseason contest against the Phoenix Suns at Acrisure Arena.

Lakers coach JJ Redick told reporters Thursday that James and Anthony Davis — who won gold medals with Team USA at the Paris Olympics — would play this weekend.

James’ son, Lakers rookie guard Bronny James, who turns 20 on Sunday, could play his first NBA game on Friday.

“Of course there are nerves,” the younger James said after the team’s shootout Friday morning. “Comes with everything. But I’m just excited to go out there and learn and learn from the people that are playing in front of me.

“And if I get the chance to showcase my game, I will do it to the best of my ability.

Bronny James, whom the Lakers drafted in the second round, said he expects to get in-game advice from his father, much like he did during high school at Sierra Canyon and his lone college season at USC.