Deandre Ayton calls LeBron James “a machine” after 23rd season debut

LeBron James made NBA history on Tuesday night, becoming the first player ever to compete in 23 seasons while also climbing to sixth place all time in 3-pointers made. The league’s all-time scoring leader finished with 11 points and 12 assists in the Los Angeles Lakers’ 140-125 victory over the Utah Jazz.

The 40-year-old superstar returned to the court for the first time this season after missing training camp and the Lakers’ first 14 games due to sciatica. With his season debut, James surpassed Vince Carter—previously the only player to play 22 seasons—marking a new milestone in a legendary career that began in 2003.

James found his rhythm quickly, running a playmaking clinic in the second half, while new teammate Luka Doncic dominated with 37 points and 10 assists, including 17 points in the third quarter as the Lakers pulled away. Austin Reaves added 26 points, helping Los Angeles improve to 11-4 with its third straight win.

For Utah, Keyonte George scored 33 points—just 10 days younger than James’ NBA career itself—while Lauri Markkanen added 31 in the Jazz’s fifth loss in seven games.

James knocked down two first-half 3-pointers to pass Reggie Miller for sixth on the NBA’s all-time 3-point list. He later hit a driving layup to extend his record streak of double-digit scoring games to 1,293, a run that dates back to January 2007.

Bronny James also made a brief appearance, scoring a 3-pointer in the final minutes to cap off the Lakers’ impressive night.