LeBron James ‘taking some time’ and 'unlikely' to play in Friday's game against Timberwolves

LOS ANGELES - Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, is playing in his 22nd season and will turn 40 by the end of the month. 

As he reaches another birthday, the Lakers' coaching staff will be tasked with figuring out how to best manage his minutes. 

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On Wednesday, James was noticeably absent from the team’s practice in El Segundo, Calif., ESPN reported. 

"LeBron is not with the team right now," Lakers head coach JJ Redick told reporters after practice, as reported by ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. "He’s out for personal reasons, [an] an excused absence."

McMenamin went on to explain that the superstar is "taking some time." 

On Thursday morning, ESPN then reported James was "unlikely" to suit up for Friday's game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. 

Redick was also transparent about James’ fatigue, adding that he’s in constant communication with the four-time NBA MVP and his trainer. 

LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers.(Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)

"In a game, he’s asked for a sub a couple of times because he’s gassed," Redick told ESPN. "For us, we have to be cognizant as we play more and more games, just the cumulative effect of playing a lot of minutes and Sunday, being banged up with the foot thing, it felt like a good opportunity for him to get some rest."

Earlier this week, commentary from ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins raised some eyebrows during his appearance on "First Take."

"My sources tell me that if LeBron James at any point and says he wants to be traded or wants to entertain it, he’ll entertain it," Perkins said. 

However, James and the Lakers have not commented on Perkins claims. Also, James has a no-trade clause built into his contract.  

Bronny James was also expected to travel with the South Bay Lakers, the Lakers G League team, for their game against the Valley Suns in Tempe, Arizona on Thursday. 

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So far this season, LeBron James is averaging 23 points, 8 rebounds, and 9.1 assists per game.