LeBron James’ Recovery Progresses: “Being Back with the Group Is Helping Me”
LeBron plays 35 minutes in the win against the Jazz. His shooting numbers aren’t there yet, but he’s confident in his recovery after his second game of the season
The Lakers return from Salt Lake City with a meaningful win – 108-106 over the Utah Jazz – secured by a late-game defensive stand that earned LeBron James’ approval.
Regaining rhythm wasn’t immediate for LeBron, especially after a four-day break following his debut in his 23rd NBA season, compounded by the sciatica he’s been managing since the start of the year.
In the NBA it always happens that a team makes a run late. We made the last play when it mattered.
LeBron James
The efficiency still isn’t there (17 points on 8-for-18 shooting, 0-for-4 from three), but the nearly 35 minutes he logged in Salt Lake City show that at 40 years old, James is bouncing back quickly.
Four days without playing throws off your flow a bit, but getting back to practice with the group set everything right again. We’re finding the right shots. The percentages will come back.
LeBron James
The Lakers as a whole are also navigating a tough stretch from beyond the arc, currently ranking 26th in the league in three-point percentage. Despite the struggles, LeBron remains optimistic:
It won’t last… we have a lot of great shooters.
LeBron James
The game backed him up: presence, poise, and that ability to flip the switch in key moments, like in the second quarter, when he led three straight decisive plays.
There was also a nostalgic moment as he spoke about his close friend Chris Paul and CP3’s final season.
I hope he enjoys all of it. He’s had an incredible career.
LeBron James
With Luka Doncic’s 33 points and 11 rebounds, plus strong contributions from Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura, the Lakers extend their winning streak to four and climb to 12-4. Now the Staples Center awaits for the rivalry matchup against the Clippers, as the season truly starts to heat up.