LOS ANGELES — LeBron James played his first game of the 2025-26 season on Tuesday night and the Los Angeles Lakers responded with a 140-126 victory over the Utah Jazz at Crypto.com Arena.
James, sidelined for the opening 14 contests because of sciatica, became the first player in league history to appear in 23 seasons. In 30 minutes, the 40-year-old forward recorded 11 points, three rebounds and 12 assists while hitting 4 of 7 shots.
Jazz start fast, Lakers answer
Utah opened the night with three early three-pointers and raced to a 16-6 lead, forcing an early Los Angeles timeout. The Jazz held a 36-27 advantage after one quarter behind the hot shooting of rookie guard Keyonte George.
The Lakers tightened their defense in the second period and used transition opportunities to close the gap. James’ first basket, a wing three, was followed by a lob to center Deandre Ayton. Luka Dončić poured in 20 first-half points, and Austin Reaves tied the game with a four-point play, but Lauri Markkanen answered with a four-point play of his own to give Utah a 71-67 edge at halftime.
Dončić takes control in third quarter
Los Angeles seized its first lead midway through the third when Dončić scored on a driving layup. The All-NBA guard continued the surge, connecting from deep and converting repeatedly at the free-throw line. Gabe Vincent capped the period with a corner three at the buzzer, sending the Lakers to the fourth up 104-93.
James orchestrates closing run
James directed the offense early in the final quarter, finding Ayton and Jake LaRavia for easy baskets as the margin grew to 20. The Lakers maintained that cushion the rest of the way, securing their third straight win.
By the numbers
- Lakers: Dončić 37 points, five rebounds, 10 assists; Reaves strong in attack; team record improves to 11-4.
- Jazz: George paced Utah early; Markkanen’s first-half burst helped maintain the lead before intermission.
- Team totals: Los Angeles scored 73 second-half points while limiting Utah to 55.
What’s next
Both teams will have several days off before meeting again on Sunday night, this time at Delta Center in Salt Lake City.
Source: Lakers Nation
