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LeBron James Debuts, Lakers Top Jazz as He Begins Record 23rd Season

The Lakers plan a careful reintegration after a sciatica layoff, with minutes monitored and roles adjusted.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 18: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts against the Utah Jazz during the second quarter at Crypto.com Arena on November 18, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
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CHAPEL HILL, NORTH CAROLINA - NOVEMBER 7: Darryn Peterson #22 of the Kansas Jayhawks during a game against the North Carolina Tar Heels at Dean E. Smith Center on November 7, 2025 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. (Photo by Ryan Hunt/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • James logged 30 minutes with 11 points and 12 assists in a 140-126 win over Utah, reporting no immediate setbacks.
  • He had missed the first 14 games with right-side sciatica and ramped up via practices with the South Bay affiliate before rejoining full team sessions.
  • Luka Dončić led Los Angeles with 37 points and 10 assists, while Austin Reaves scored 26 and Deandre Ayton added 20 points with 14 rebounds.
  • The Lakers were 10-4 without James, and coach JJ Redick said he is trending in the right direction as the team manages his minutes and evaluates lineup fit.
  • By taking the floor, James became the first NBA player to appear in 23 consecutive seasons and extended his double-digit scoring streak to 1,293 games.