LeBron James made his comeback to the Los Angeles Lakers after a brief break over the past ten days. His team defeated the Memphis Grizzlies, the No. 2 seed, 116-110. Before this game, the Grizzlies had won four straight games in the NBA. The Lakers’ victory was crucial in keeping them in the running for a top-six spot.
However, it was James’ return that has been most talked about by the NBA community lately. The incident came during the start of play. The Lakers star had his ‘welcome back’ moment as he first scored a monstrous slam on the Grizzlies and backed that up with a chase-down block in the 2nd minute of the 1st quarter. This left the Lakers fans in awe as well as the commentators of the game.
James contributed 18 points (7-17 FG), gathered 8 rebounds, and provided eight assists in the victory. Anthony Davis led the Lakers with an incredible 40 points (15-22 FG) and 16 rebounds. Austin Reaves finished the game with 19 points (6-15 FG) and eight assists. He was the only other Laker to score more than ten points apart from James and Davis.
LEBRON SLAM & CHASEDOWN BLOCK 🔥
MEM-LAL | NBA League Pass
📲 pic.twitter.com/UFGC6IYPas— NBA (@NBA) December 16, 2024
On the other hand, Ja Morant scored an ineffective 20 points (6-20) and Jaren Jackson Jr. produced 25 points (9-13 FG) before fouling out in the fourth quarter. As such, the Grizzlies were unable to compete for the win. They were the only two players to score in double figures. Despite the Grizzlies being in top form lately, James and the Lakers showcased dominance over their rivals in the West.
JJ Redick heaps huge praise on LeBron James after recent win
LeBron James‘ return provided a huge boost to the Los Angeles Lakers and his head coach JJ Redick. James missed three games during his nine-day absence from the Lakers, which saw them lose 2 games in the process. Now, on his return, James provided his side a much-needed win. Regarding James, Redick spoke highly during the post-match press conference.
He’s the best on our team with attention to detail and shifts
JJ Redick told the reporters
JJ Redick on LeBron: “He’s the best on our team with attention to detail and shifts”
— Lakers Daily (@LakersDailyCom) December 16, 2024
This season, he is averaging 22.8 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 9.1 assists. The Lakers are most successful when James embraces the pass-first strategy and feeds players like Anthony Davis or Austin Reaves on the border. This depends on how well Reaves is shooting.
However, Redick will be alert to James’ fitness lately. He will have to handle his star’s minutes if they plan on securing a playoff berth this season. All eyes will shift towards the Lakers’ next matchup against the Sacramento Kings.
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