Just three games into the new season, NBA legend LeBron James is already showing the Philadelphia 76ers that they can’t expect him to be an important component of a championship contender in 2026.

After winning the offseason by trading for Jaylen Brown and signing James to a discount deal, the 76ers are the most fascinating team in the league to begin the 2026-27 campaign. The two All-Stars were added to a roster that already included Joel Embiid and a top-10 scoring talent in Tyrese Maxey.

On paper, they can be fantastic if their stars are willing to sacrifice their numbers at the altar of success. Well, so far so good, because Philadelphia owns a 2-0 record to begin the season after very nice wins over the defending champion New York Knicks and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

In those wins, the 22-time All-Star delivered very well-rounded, near triple-double performances. Against New York, he posted 14 points, 9 boards, and 7 assists. Against Cleveland, he had 17 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists. He showed that he can be the important glue that can make this powerhouse team run efficiently.

LeBron James to miss next Philadelphia 76ers game just a week into the new season

However, on Saturday, he also showed why the 76ers have to prepare for him to miss a good amount of time during the season. The Philly Voice reports James was downgraded from questionable to out for the team’s first of a back-to-back that begins with the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday. His current issues are related to lower back-sciatica management.

Back issues have become a growing concern since last season for the man who will turn 42 in December. Problems with his sciatica are why he was limited to 60 games last season. It is the sort of issue that will likely be a problem for the rest of his career and could flare up at any time.

Having James for a bargain-rate contract is something every team in the NBA would love. However, there is a risk in a player at his age and with a ton of miles on his body being an important part of the roster. The 76ers must develop backup plans for James, or it will cost them when it matters most.