The Los Angeles Lakers and James are targeting a mid-November season debut for the future Hall of Famer as he continues to work through sciatica on his right side, ESPN's Shams Charania reported Wednesday.

The Lakers announced last week that James will miss at least three to four weeks and then be re-evaluated.

L.A. is set to host Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors on Oct. 21 to cap the league's opening night double-header -- doing so without James, which ends the future Hall of Famer's remarkable run of 22 consecutive appearances in his team's season opener.

James, 40, has missed all the Lakers' pre-season games due to the lower-body nerve injury. Sciatica is described as pain going down the leg from the lower back, which may extend down the back, outside, or front of the leg.

When James does step on the court this season, he'll make even more history, becoming the first NBA player to complete 23 seasons. He's currently tied with Vince Carter for the all-time record.

James, who will be the oldest active player in the league, has proven to be plenty productive when available. James averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists and 1.0 steals on 60.4-per-cent true shooting in 70 games last year, earning a remarkable 21st consecutive all-star nod while making the all-NBA second team.

Lakers head coach JJ Redick acknowledged James' absence last week, but also noted the importance of his team remaining prepared for when the four-time champion does eventually return.

"You've got to play the cards you're dealt," Redick said. "That's a shame, but that's just the reality. ... No one has got any time with LeBron. That's not just (new centre Deandre Ayton), but everybody. (James) hasn't been on the court with the team, but that's just the reality."