LeBron James Shines in Season Debut as Lakers Defeat Jazz

Posted : 19 November 2025

LeBron James made a long-awaited return to the court on Tuesday night, helping the Los Angeles Lakers claim a 140–126 victory over the Utah Jazz in his first appearance of the season. The 40-year-old superstar, beginning an unprecedented 23rd NBA season, delivered 11 points, 12 assists, and 3 rebounds in 30 minutes as the Lakers posted their highest scoring performance of the year. His driving layup in the third quarter extended his historic streak of double-digit scoring games to 1,293, a run that dates back to January 2007.

Lakers head coach JJ Redick praised James’ efficient and team-first approach, noting his smart decision-making and constant pressure on the defense. Redick emphasized how James’ presence on the floor instantly elevates the team, particularly when he controls the offense from the post or attacks the rim.

James had missed the first 14 games of the campaign while recovering from sciatica, a nerve issue that affected his lower back and right side. He admitted that the absence took a toll on him mentally, explaining that this was the first time since childhood he had not been able to start a basketball season on time.

With Tuesday’s appearance, James became the first player in league history to compete in 23 seasons, surpassing Vince Carter. Despite the long layoff, he quickly rediscovered his rhythm, orchestrating the offense masterfully as the Lakers pulled away. Luka Dončić, who scored 37 points and added 10 assists, highlighted James’ rare playmaking abilities and the impact he has on his teammates.

James tallied eight assists in the second half alone, including six in a span of just over three minutes early in the fourth quarter. Redick applauded the team’s composure throughout the game, noting that their improved poise and ability to problem-solve marked significant growth from last season.

The veteran forward rejoined full team practices on Monday, participating in 5-on-5 drills for the first time since the Lakers’ playoff loss to Minnesota in April. His return followed a brief stint with the G League’s South Bay Lakers, where he tested his conditioning while the main roster was on a road trip.

James acknowledged that adjusting to NBA game speed was challenging at first, but said he felt progressively more comfortable as the night went on. Though still working toward full rhythm after nearly seven months away, he was encouraged by his stamina and movement.

Already the league’s all-time scoring leader, James continues to climb other record lists. After Tuesday’s game, he sits 50 appearances behind Robert Parish for the most games played in NBA history and remains within reach of Jason Kidd for third place on the all-time assists list. His two first-half three-pointers also moved him past Reggie Miller for sixth on the all-time three-point leaderboard.

New teammate Deandre Ayton expressed admiration for James’ court vision, recounting that the alley-oop James delivered to him during the game was only the second lob he had ever received from the superstar—the first occurring when Ayton attended James’ youth camp as an eighth grader.

LeBron James Shines in Season Debut as Lakers Defeat Jazz

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