The Los Angeles Lakers’ home court, the Crypto.com Arena, was buzzing with an energy (LeBron James) that transcended a typical November night. Specifically, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation for a single moment: the return of LeBron James. Consequently, the 40-year-old superstar made his season debut on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, after missing the Lakers’ first 14 games due to a persistent and painful bout of right sciatica. However, his return was more than just a welcome sight for the team. Indeed, by stepping onto the court against the Utah Jazz, LeBron James officially began his 23rd NBA season, a remarkable, record-breaking feat unmatched in league history. LeBron James
The night was a resounding success. The Lakers, who had already managed an impressive 10-4 start without their leader, defeated the Jazz 140-126. Furthermore, the win extended the Lakers’ current winning streak to three games, propelling them further up the Western Conference standings. Ultimately, James’s performance was defined by control and playmaking. He demonstrated that even in his record-setting 23rd season, he remains one of the game’s most essential orchestrators.
The Long Wait: Battling Sciatica LeBron James
LeBron James’s absence from the beginning of the 2025-26 season was a novel and frustrating experience for the veteran. Historically, James has always started his basketball seasons on time, a tradition dating back to his childhood. However, this season was different. Specifically, a flare-up of right sciatica—a nerve issue causing pain in the lower back and radiating down the right side of his body—sidelined him throughout training camp and the entire pre-season. LeBron James
The decision to sit out was a deliberate, cautious move by James and the Lakers’ medical staff. They recognized that managing a nerve-related condition like sciatica requires careful rehabilitation to prevent a painful recurrence under heavy physical strain. Therefore, his recovery included extensive workouts with the team’s G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers, where he participated in full-contact, five-on-five drills. Even so, the mental toll of watching from the sidelines was significant. James admitted afterward that it had been “rough mentally for me” to miss the start of the season. Nevertheless, the conservative approach proved prudent, allowing him to return with a clean bill of health, even if he confessed his “rhythm is still coming back.”
Breaking the Unbreakable: The 23rd Season Record
The most significant aspect of the night was the historic milestone James achieved simply by taking the court. By logging minutes against the Utah Jazz, James broke the NBA record for the most seasons played by an individual player. Previously, he had been tied with the legendary Vince Carter, who played 22 seasons before retiring.
This record is a profound testament to James’s unparalleled dedication, longevity, and physical maintenance. For a player who has carried the heavy burden of expectation since his rookie year in 2003, reaching a 23rd season at age 40 is a statistical and physiological anomaly. Furthermore, this record serves as a stark reminder of his place as the NBA’s all-time scoring leader and a four-time NBA champion. In short, every time James steps onto the court now, he is not just playing basketball; he is actively rewriting the record books of athletic endurance. As his coach, JJ Redick, noted, James is viewed as “a superhero” by many who played with and against him.
The Return Performance: Playmaker First LeBron James
James’s box score for the night was unconventional by his lofty standards. He finished with 11 points, 12 assists, and three rebounds in just under 30 minutes of action. Crucially, the 12 assists were a game-high. Significantly, James took only seven shots, one of the fewest shot attempts in any game he has completed in his entire career. Consequently, the focus was clearly on playmaking rather than scoring volume. LeBron James
The shift was immediately apparent. Initially, James missed his first shot attempt, a three-pointer, and did not score in his first 11 minutes. However, he quickly settled into the role of a facilitator. For example, his two three-pointers in the second quarter moved him past Reggie Miller for the sixth-most three-pointers in NBA history. Moreover, James made a driving layup in the third quarter to extend his record streak of double-digit scoring performances to an incredible 1,293 consecutive games. But beyond the scoring, James put on a true playmaking clinic in the second half, racking up eight assists, including six in just over three minutes early in the fourth quarter. Therefore, his presence primarily served to orchestrate the Lakers’ offense, proving his value goes far beyond the score column.
Integrating the Trio: LeBron, Luka, and Reaves
The integration of James into the Lakers’ lineup was the biggest question mark heading into the game. Fortunately, the transition was made easier by the stellar play of his teammates during his absence. Luka Dončić, the other superstar acquired in a blockbuster trade, has been dominating the league, and Austin Reaves has delivered a career-best start to the season. LeBron James
During the game, Dončić was sensational, leading all players with 37 points and adding 10 assists. Reaves was equally impactful, contributing 26 points. Specifically, the trio combined for a dominant offensive display. For instance, after trailing 71-67 at halftime, the Lakers took charge in the third quarter, with Dončić scoring 17 points and the team closing the quarter on a decisive 21-5 run. Therefore, James’s return was seamless. He didn’t try to force the issue or dominate the ball. Instead, he played an unselfish, willing-passer role, allowing Dončić and Reaves to maintain their offensive rhythm. Ultimately, the result showed the true potential of the new “Big Three.”
Looking Ahead: Managing the Uncharted Territory LeBron James
The win against the Jazz was the perfect start to James’s 23rd season, but the road ahead remains challenging. Coach Redick acknowledged that the team is entering “uncharted territory” in managing the health and workload of a 40-year-old playing his 23rd season. Consequently, ongoing communication will be vital to ensure James’s long-term availability, with rest and pain management being prioritized. LeBron James
The Lakers’ next game is against the Jazz again, this time in Salt Lake City. Before then, the team has several days to practice, allowing James to further establish his chemistry with Dončić and Reaves and fully regain his game rhythm. The hope is that his record-breaking season will not just be a ceremonial one. Rather, it is viewed as a crucial step toward another championship run, propelled by his experience, his leadership, and his ability to elevate the play of his equally talented teammates. Truly, the King’s return signals a new, exciting chapter for the Los Angeles Lakers.
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