The Los Angeles Lakers welcomed back LeBron James on Tuesday, but their approach on the court remained largely consistent on his return night. Luka Doncic led the charge with 37 points and 10 assists, helping the Lakers overcome a double-digit deficit to secure a 140-125 win against the Utah Jazz. Doncic is currently averaging 34.6 points per game and has notched 35 or more points in seven out of 11 games this season.
LeBron, making his season debut after missing 14 games due to sciatica, contributed 11 points on 4-of-7 shooting, handed out 12 assists, grabbed three rebounds, and had one turnover. Austin Reaves added to the impressive showing with 26 points on 7-of-11 shooting, while Deandre Ayton pulled down 14 rebounds and scored 20 points. Bronny James also knocked down a notable three-pointer.
Despite being without their all-time leading scorer for a month, the Lakers started strong, leading 10-4 by the time LeBron entered the game. Their strategy was to rely heavily on Doncic and Reaves to create opportunities, as the duo averaged a combined 62.7 points and 17.1 assists per game without LeBron. On Tuesday, LeBron took over some playmaking duties, with the team posting 63 points and 11 assists overall. The aim is for Doncic’s continued growth and Reaves’ breakout performance to blend well with LeBron’s presence, which Tuesday’s game hinted at positively.
The Lakers’ start was slow, as the Jazz built an 11-point lead in the first quarter and maintained most of it through the first half. LeBron didn’t score until midway through the second quarter. However, Doncic dominated the second half, scoring 19 points in the third while Utah’s offense faltered. The Lakers trailed by four at halftime but led by 11 heading into the fourth quarter, thanks to a decisive 14-2 run. The Lakers kept their star trio on the court late in the game, possibly to gain more chemistry or send a strong message to the Jazz, who dropped to a 5-9 record. Utah’s Lauri Markkanen and Keyonte George led with 31 points each.
Fan Take: This game is pivotal for basketball fans as it signals the potential resurgence of the Lakers with LeBron back in action, blending veteran leadership with emerging stars like Doncic and Reaves. It could mark the beginning of an exciting new era where experience and youthful talent combine, raising the stakes in the league.
