LeBron James described his return to action after missing three games as “pretty good,” saying, “Definitely been taking care of my body obviously over the last week and was able to nurse a couple of things and get ready for the night.”
On adjusting his game to the team’s needs, James noted, “I feel like that’s a void that I could input myself into to help the team. Just try to do that, allow AR [Austin Reaves] and Luka to continue on the things they’ve been doing.”
When asked if this adaptation felt like a sacrifice, he clarified, “I mean, benefit others, benefit the team. The team is most important. Everybody’s successful when we win. It is some sacrifice, but what’s important for this team is the only thing that matters.”
James reflected on observing his teammates while sidelined, saying, “We’ve been playing complimentary basketball. AR and Luka have obviously been offensively magical and dynamic, but the rest of the guys’ energy and effort, DA [Deandre Ayton] has been unbelievable as of late. Everybody’s getting an opportunity, just been playing at a high level.”
Discussing the value of preparation in March, he added, “You can build habits, build chemistry, build a way how you want to play when it comes to the postseason. Every game matters, the way you approach the game matters, and the details of approaching every night.”
James also elaborated on his mindset, referencing a recent social media post: “Everything is a win when the goal is to experience. That’s just a mindset. When you get older, you appreciate the moment more than anything.”
He continued, “When you’re younger, you’re thinking about what you’ve done in the past or what’s to come in the future, but the only thing we know for sure that’s happening is the moment. Having a big family, three kids, appreciating those moments every time I’m with them or the time spent with my mother and wife.”
In Thursday’s 142-130 victory over the Chicago Bulls at Crypto.com Arena, James scored 18 points, complementing Luka Doncic’s 51-point performance and Austin Reaves’ 30 points. He made all five of his third-quarter field goal attempts, helping the Lakers pull away.
Los Angeles shot 56 percent overall and 71 percent from the line, improving to a four-game winning streak and moving ahead of the idle Houston Rockets into third place in the Western Conference. Chicago fell to 27-39 and will face the LA Clippers on Friday.
