Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James is not going to play Friday in opposition to the Minnesota Timberwolves, in keeping with the crew.

He didn’t accompany the crew on its flight, sources advised ESPN.

It might give James, who missed Sunday’s sport with foot soreness, eight days in between video games if he returns Sunday in opposition to Memphis.

Due to the NBA Cup, the Lakers are capable of take a prudent strategy with the schedule to permit James to recalibrate and recharge his physique.

L.A. performs simply two video games in a 10-day stretch Dec. 9-18 — coach JJ Redick gave your complete crew Monday off and designated Tuesday as an elective “get what you want” day.

Redick met with lots of the Lakers’ gamers individually Tuesday, however James was not current, the coach mentioned Wednesday.

On the season, James is averaging 23 factors on 49.5% taking pictures (35.9% from 3), 9.1 assists and eight.0 rebounds. Redick mentioned he’s in fixed communication with the participant and Mike Mancias, James’ longtime athletic coach, about managing the four-time MVP’s workload as he nears his fortieth birthday on the finish of the month.

“In sport, he is requested for a sub a pair occasions as a result of he is gassed,” Redick mentioned Wednesday. “For us, we’ve got to be cognizant as we play increasingly video games, simply the cumulative impact of taking part in loads of minutes, and Sunday, being banged up with the foot factor, it felt like alternative for him to get some relaxation.”

Guard Austin Reaves is questionable for Friday’s sport with a left pelvic contusion that has stored him out the previous 5 video games.