After 14 games, the wait is finally over. LeBron James returned to action for the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday night as they faced Lauri Markkanen and the Utah Jazz, marking James’ first appearance of the 2025 regular season.
James had been sidelined throughout the preseason and the opening stretch of the regular season due to a back injury that required extended rehabilitation. In his absence, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves helped keep the Lakers competitive in a tight Western Conference race. Entering Tuesday, Los Angeles held a 10-4 record, buoyed by strong scoring efforts from both guards. Doncic began the night as the league’s leading scorer, while Reaves also ranked in the top 10.
James was not the only Laker making a return. Guard Gabe Vincent also rejoined the lineup after missing 11 straight games with an ankle injury, giving Los Angeles a much-needed boost in the backcourt.
As for James’ performance, it was a promising debut considering his lengthy recovery. The 23-year veteran finished with a double-double: 11 points, 12 assists and three rebounds, while shooting an efficient 4-for-7 from the field. While he did not look to score heavily, his playmaking shined, and perhaps most importantly for Lakers fans, he logged 30 minutes — a strong indication he will not be on a strict minutes restriction moving forward.
Vincent contributed well in his return, adding six points on 2-for-3 shooting across 16 minutes.
Ultimately, the Lakers cruised to a 15-point victory over the Jazz, setting a positive tone for James’ return. Los Angeles will now have four days off before facing Utah again, giving fans another look at how James, Doncic and Reaves are developing as a trio.
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