Lakers star LeBron James returns after missing 13 games due to injury v3c6a

LeBron James Postgame Interview | Los Angeles Lakers lose to Chicago Bulls 118-108 67m9

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James returned from a right foot injury on Sunday. The 19-time NBA All-Star played for 29 minutes, scored 19 points, secured eight rebounds and provided three assists. Despite his return, the Lakers lost 118-108 to the Chicago Bulls to break their three-game winning streak,

Less than an hour before the game, the Lakers announced that James would play after being absent for 13 games. He underwent a foot test during the pregame warmup, and the medical staff cleared him for the Sunday afternoon game.

Los Angeles Lakers

2023-03-26 19:04

Officially Official https://t.co/JhClyC0eGZ

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James was not included in the Lakers’ starting lineup. Instead, he made a rare appearance as a substitute in the first quarter at the 6:32 mark.

The Akron native said his injury was a torn tendon that usually takes longer than four weeks to heal. Multiple doctors had suggested that he undergo surgery and sit out the rest of the season.

James sought the advice of a foot specialist whom he referred to as “the LeBron James of feet.” Following the consultation, the doctor reassured the player that he could make a comeback this season.

NBA

2023-03-26 20:01

LeBron’s first bucket back 👏 Driving for the layup to put the @Lakers in front in Q1! Watch now: https://t.co/Iwp2fxPMXA https://t.co/j7DC39MwhY

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The injury happened during a game against the Dallas Mavericks on February 26. Even though the Lakers were trailing by 27 points that day, James pushed through the pain and helped the team bounce back.

The four-time NBA champion scored 26 points, grabbed eight rebounds and dished out three assists in that game. However, he went on to miss 27 games this season due to the injury.

Sporting News NBA

2023-03-26 19:59

LeBron comes off the bench for just the second time in his career. Just twice in 1,680 career games. 🎥: @NBA https://t.co/DfawOdNI1p

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During James’ absence, eight-time NBA All-Star Anthony Davis was the leading force for the Lakers, averaging 27.3 points and 12.8 rebounds in 11 games. The team managed to do well by going 8-5 in their games.

The Lakers spent most of their time at No. 13 in the Western Conference standings throughout the season. However, after winning against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday, they finally reached a .500 record for the first time this season and moved up to the No. 8 slot.

SportsCenter

2023-03-26 20:03

LeBron gets his first bucket since returning from injury 👑 https://t.co/dOneU7LBz7

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Unfortunately, the loss to the Bulls pushed them back below .500 at 37-38, with the team dropping to the No. 9 position in the playoff picture.

After Sunday’s game, the Lakers will start a five-game road trip beginning with a rematch against the Bulls in Chicago on Wednesday. After that, they will take on the Minnesota Timberwolves, Houston Rockets and Utah Jazz.