LeBron James has played 1,000 games, regular season and playoffs, since he entered the NBA. That’s more than anyone in that span.
In the last four years alone, he’s averaged more than 95 games per season.
That can take a toll.
Dave McMenamin of ESPN:
LeBron says his back has been "iffy" at the start of camp, but he hasn't missed any sessions yet. He may sit out 2nd practice tonite though
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) September 30, 2014
That LeBron hasn’t sat out is encouraging. The Cavaliers are expecting a long season ahead, and this is the time of the year to be extra careful.
But LeBron is so important to the team – to the league, really – any minor injury raises eyebrows. That he signed a two-year contract – giving himself less security in exchange for more upside – further magnifies any bump or bruise.
His weight loss should help him get through this, even if he says otherwise.