LeBron James plays supporting role as Lakers collect fourth consecutive victory
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The Los Angeles Lakers welcomed LeBron James back to the lineup Thursday in Chicago, and the 41-year-old star shifted into a facilitator’s role while the team notched its fourth straight win.
James, returning from three games out with foot, elbow and hip issues, delivered 18 points, seven rebounds and seven assists on 13 shots. Luka Doncic powered the offense with 51 points—his first 50-point outing since joining L.A. last February—while Austin Reaves added 30. According to the club, the Lakers are 8-3 this season when James is not among their top two in field-goal attempts.
“He wants to do everything possible to help his team win,” head coach JJ Redick said, noting recent conversations with the veteran forward. “He understands the importance of making sure Luka and AR can be at their best.”
James called Doncic and Reaves “magical and dynamic” on offense and said sacrificing shots is worthwhile when it benefits the group. “Everybody’s successful when we win,” he said. “The win is the only thing that matters.”
Additional Lakers notes
— Hot hands: Reaves has scored at least 25 points in three consecutive games, his longest such run since a November calf injury kept him out for an extended stretch.
— Frontcourt boost: Center Deandre Ayton is averaging 14.3 points and 10 rebounds in his last three appearances after missing time with knee soreness. “I finally caught up with the team,” Ayton said.
— Injury updates: Redick told reporters before the game that forward Maxi Kleber will miss additional time because of a lumbar issue. The team is awaiting imaging results on Jaxson Hayes (back), while Marcus Smart, sidelined Thursday with a hip problem, could return Saturday against Denver.
Source: Hoops Rumors
