LOS ANGELES — On Sunday night, LeBron James made his return to the Los Angeles Lakers in a tightly contested game that ended with a 116-110 victory against the Memphis Grizzlies. His comeback followed a two-game hiatus due to personal matters, compounded by an ongoing left foot injury.

James had previously missed games against the Portland Trail Blazers and the Minnesota Timberwolves, as the team managed his health. Just about 45 minutes before the game against Memphis, the Lakers updated his status from questionable to available, allowing him to take the court. In 34 minutes of play, James contributed 18 points, along with eight rebounds, eight assists, and five turnovers.

“I felt pretty good,” said James after the game. “It’s rare during the season to find opportunities to capitalize on the schedule, and I was fortunate enough to do that this past week.” The Lakers regarded his absence as an excused leave, elaborating on the left foot discomfort he has been addressing. Coach JJ Redick mentioned that he had a conversation with James on the day of the Portland game to discuss the strategy behind his break.

“I expressed my hope that he would have a solid mental and physical reset,” Redick shared. “He conveyed that he did feel that way.” As the oldest player in the NBA, James is fast approaching his 40th birthday on December 30. Remarkably, in his 22nd season, he has played more games and logged more minutes of court time than any other player in NBA history, tying Vince Carter for the most seasons played.

Reflecting on his foot and overall physical condition, James mentioned, “I did my pregame workout on Sunday before the game against Portland and believed it was best to take the day off. I was fortunate to have more days to focus on my mental and physical state, and it paid off.” Redick empathized with James’ need to rest.

“I played 15 years and was left emotionally and physically exhausted,” Redick noted. “For athletes like him, Chris Paul, and even icons like Tom Brady and Roger Federer, it’s a challenge to maintain that level of excellence for such a long period, considering the toll it takes on mind and body.”

During his time away, James focused on rehabilitation for his foot and training to maintain his competitive form. “It was a clear decision for me, my trainer, and the team to utilize those days effectively,” James stated. “It turned out to be beneficial.”

Currently, James is averaging 23 points, 9.1 assists, and eight rebounds per game for the season, including seven triple-doubles, which is the second-most in the league behind Denver’s Nikola Jokic.

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This report has been amended to accurately reflect the final score of 116-110.