LeBron James has been cleared to play against the Atlanta Hawks after being listed as probable due to a lingering left foot injury. His return comes after a notable performance where he tied Michael Jordan for the most 30-point games in NBA history with 562 during a victory over the Portland Trail Blazers.
While Anthony Davis was also probable, he remains sidelined along with Jalen Hood-Schifino, Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, and Christian Wood. In Davis' absence, young players like Jaxson Hayes and Christian Koloko rose to the occasion, earning praise from head coach JJ Redick for their contributions.
Max Christie shone brightly, recording a career-high 28 points, while James scored 38 points and dished out eight assists. Redick emphasized the importance of James being aggressive from beyond the arc, highlighting the Lakers' reliance on both stars for success as they currently sit sixth in the Western Conference.
