Leads comeback in big final quarter James accumulated 33 points (14-23 FG, 3-8 3Pt, 2-2 FT), eight rebounds, six assists and two steals in 40 minutes during Wednesday's 106-101 victory over Utah. Impact James was relatively quiet through three periods, but he came through with 15 fourth-quarter points to help the Lakers snag a big victory despite the loss of Anthony Davis (ankle). The veteran complemented the scoring total with his usual accumulation of peripheral stats, leading the Lakers with eight boards and tying for the team lead with six assists. James will now rest up around Sunday's All-Star game after averaging 29.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 2.8 three-pointers, 1.6 steals and 1.0 blocked shots over 41 games in the first half of the campaign. With Davis potentially out for an extended period, James could have to step up even more after the break in order to keep the Lakers -- who are four games below .500 -- afloat.
FEBRUARY 17, 2022 • ROTOWIRE