LeBron James returned to the Los Angeles Lakers lineup in a win over the Chicago Bulls on March 13, helping the team secure its fourth consecutive victory and seventh win in eight games. James had missed the previous three games but contributed 18 points, seven rebounds, seven assists, and two steals in his return.
James said he felt physically well after taking time off to recover. “I felt pretty good,” James said after the 12-point win. “I’ve been taking care of my body over this last week, haven’t played since the Denver game. I’ve been able to nurse a couple of things to get ready for tonight.”
With key role players Jaxson Hayes and Maxi Kleber out due to injury, James emphasized his ability to adapt his play style based on what the team needs. “I mean obviously, like I said, I’m able to adapt to whatever needs from the team,” James added. With Jaxson [Hayes] and Maxi [Kleber] being out, two of our really good screen setters, Jaxson being one of our best rollers, that’s a void that I could put myself in to help the team while Jaxson and Maxi are out. Just try to do that. Allowing AR and Luka to continue on the things that they’ve been doing. Obviously, ball handling, scoring, pick-and-roll play. Trying to help on the glass. I mean, I’m always past the ball, so I’m not worried about that. Also trying to be a little more active.”
Luka Doncic nearly recorded a 51-point triple-double while Austin Reaves scored 30 points with seven assists as he returned to early-season form. The Lakers have seen improved performances across their roster during this stretch.
“I mean we played good basketball, obviously. Before even tonight, we won our last six out of seven,” James noted. “So, we didn’t just win the previous two games. We’ve just been playing complimentary basketball. Like I said, AR and Luka offensively have been magical and dynamic. The rest of the guys, the energy and the effort. DA has been unbelievable as of late. Obviously, M-Dot (Marcus Smart) was out tonight, but Marcus has been great. Everybody was getting an opportunity and have just been playing at a high level. Like you said, that Knicks game and Minnesota game was just another bit of it.”
Head coach JJ Redick also addressed speculation about whether the Lakers perform better without James in the lineup but did not go so far as to support those claims publicly.
As Los Angeles continues its strong run into a crucial part of their season schedule, finding balance between stars like Doncic, Reaves and James will remain important for ongoing success.
