Lakers’ LeBron James debuts vs. Jazz, begins record 23rd year

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James played his first match of the season against the Utah Jazz to kick off his record-breaking 23rd edition in the NBA. James had 11 points, 12 assists, and 3 rebounds in 30 minutes.

The Lakers registered a 140-126 win over the Utah Jazz on Tuesday night and also recorded their season high in points. Meanwhile, James also extended his streak of double-digit scoring performances to a record 1,293 games — every game in which he has played since Jan. 6, 2007.

The Lakers head coach JJ Redick showered praise on the veteran player and said he was unselish.

“Just thought he played with the right spirit. Very unselfish all night. Was a willing passer, didn’t force it, took his drives and his shots when they were there,” Lakers coach JJ Redick said. “The defense is going to pay attention to him, particularly when he has the ball in the post, particularly when he’s putting pressure on the rim, and I just thought he made a lot of great decisions tonight. Really good to have him back.”

The veteran was ruled out of the first 14 games of the season due to sciatica, an injury he has faced for the second time in his career.

“It was just fun to be out there with the guys, man,” James said. “It’s been rough mentally for me. This is the first time I’ve started a basketball season and not played since I’ve started playing basketball, like 9 years old, I’ve never missed the beginning of a basketball season.”

Meanwhile, Luka Doncic also praised James after a comprehensive win against the Jazz.

“He does things that other people can’t. He’s here to help us all,” said Luka Doncic, who scored 37 points — including 17 in the third quarter — to go along with 10 assists.

Redick said they were well-balanced throughout the match and it played a key role in the team’s success.

“After the game, just waiting on the guys to get back in the locker room — I think the word we were using as a coaching staff was our poise as a group,” Redick said. “Not overreacting, not pulling apart, problem solving, all that stuff in real time, and just continuing to play. And that at times was missing last year.”

The Lakers will once again take on the Utah Jazz on Sunday.