LeBron Returns, Pistons Extend Streak, Celtics Push Above .500
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Lakers 140, Jazz 126
LeBron James opened his 23rd NBA season Tuesday night by guiding the Los Angeles Lakers past the Utah Jazz 140-126 at Crypto.com Arena. The 39-year-old forward posted 11 points, 12 assists and three rebounds in 30 minutes, pushing his record streak of double-figure scoring games to 1,293.
James had missed the first 14 contests because of right-side sciatica but showed minimal rust. His playmaking after halftime helped Los Angeles pull away, and coach JJ Redick praised the veteran’s unselfish approach. James also moved past Reggie Miller for sixth place on the NBA’s all-time three-pointers list and is now 50 games shy of Robert Parish’s career games record.
The four-time MVP prepared for his return with workouts alongside the South Bay Lakers of the NBA G League before rejoining full practice Monday.
Pistons 120, Hawks 112
Cade Cunningham came back from a bruised hip to record 25 points and 10 assists, leading Detroit to its 11th consecutive victory with a 120-112 decision over Atlanta at Little Caesars Arena. The Pistons improved to 13-2, their best opening since starting 15-2 in 2005-06.
Jalen Duren scored 24, and Duncan Robinson hit three early three-pointers one night after Detroit’s win in Indiana. Cunningham became the first player in franchise history to post at least 25 points and 10 assists in five straight appearances. The current streak is the league’s longest and Detroit’s longest run since 2007-08.
Celtics 113, Nets 99
Jaylen Brown poured in 29 points, Payton Pritchard supplied 22 points and 10 rebounds, and Boston topped Brooklyn 113-99 at TD Garden. The Celtics moved to 8-7, securing their third victory in a row after starting the season 0-3.
Derrick White added 15 points. Boston and Brooklyn were level through three quarters before the Celtics’ defense limited the Nets to one basket in the first 10 minutes of the fourth period. The clubs meet again Friday in Boston.
Source: Hoops Wire
