MY ACCOUNT
LeBron James was “just excited to be back” on Saturday as he marked his return from injury with a triple-double in the Los Angeles Lakers’ win over the New York Knicks.
After a five-game absence due to a knee problem, James scored 29 points as the Lakers came back from a 15-point deficit to beat the Knicks 122-115 in overtime.
The 37-year-old also tallied 13 rebounds and 10 assists for the 103rd triple-double of his storied career and his fourth of this season.
James admitted it took time to get into the swing of things after a long time out of action, but he was thrilled to make a winning return, the Lakers having gone 1-4 in his absence.
“After the first quarter, the knee loosened up a lot more,” he said. “My mind loosened up a lot more. And I was just able to play basketball.
“But [I was] just excited to be back in the uniform, back on the floor with my guys. Missed them, missed the game. I was happy I was able to make a few plays and help us win a ballgame.”
Anthony Davis also starred, his 28 points and 17 rebounds helping the Lakers to recover after falling 42-29 behind in the first quarter.
The eight-time All-Star was relieved to have James back on the court, even if his performance was barely a surprise.
“It’s a hell of a return,” said Davis. “He’s doing LeBron-type things. [I] Expected nothing less from him. Efficient from the field.
“S***, he did what he’s supposed to do. He helped us, for sure. So, I missed him. He’s a big part of our team with his voice, his leadership, play-making ability. And he came back and showed it.”
The Lakers, who improved to 26-28, are ninth in the Western Conference standings, just behind the 27-27 Los Angeles Clippers.
