Overview
- James ended a right-side sciatica absence that cost him training camp, preseason and the Lakers’ first 14 games.
- In about 30 minutes, he posted 11 points, 12 assists and three rebounds in a 140-126 home win over the Jazz that moved Los Angeles to 11-4.
- His ramp-up included five‑on‑five work with the South Bay Lakers and his first full practice with the NBA squad on Monday before being cleared to play Tuesday.
- Coach JJ Redick described a cautious approach to his usage, and James said he is rebuilding conditioning, joking that his lungs felt like a newborn’s.
- Luka Dončić led the victory with 37 points as Austin Reaves continued his strong start, and the Lakers had their full 14-man roster available with Gabe Vincent also returning.