**LeBron James Sits Out Preseason Opener, Expected to Play Sunday**

PALM DESERT, Calif. -- In a strategic move to ensure he's well-rested, LeBron James will not participate in the Los Angeles Lakers' preseason opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves, sources informed ESPN.

James, who turned 39, will be held out of Friday's game but is anticipated to make his preseason debut on Sunday when the Lakers face off against the Phoenix Suns at Acrisure Arena. Lakers head coach JJ Redick noted that both James and teammate Anthony Davis, who had a taxing summer competing globally with Team USA, culminating in their gold medal victory at the Paris Olympics, will see game time this weekend.

James' son, rookie Bronny James, is expected to get his first taste of preseason action on Friday. Redick mentioned plans to experiment with various lineups during the exhibition schedule, potentially providing Bronny with the opportunity to showcase his skills on the professional stage.

Bronny, ahead of Friday's shootaround, expressed mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness. "Of course, there are nerves," he admitted. "Comes with everything. But I'm just excited to go out there and learn and learn from the people playing in front of me. And if I get a chance to showcase my game, then I'm going to do that to the best of my ability." He is also ready to receive advice from his father, LeBron, who has always been an active supporter during his high school and college games.

"Pretty much the same thing but now we're teammates," Bronny said. "So, it's going to be more in-depth talk about the game and stuff like that. So yeah, I'm ready for it."