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Anthony Davis: The Lakers refused to sit LeBron James against the Kings as the score increased | News, results, highlights, statistics and rumors

Adam Pantozzi/NBAE via Getty Images

Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis didn't want LeBron James flying off the floor as the 20-time All-Star came out on top in a 131-127 win over the Sacramento Kings on Saturday.

“Just when you think he's slowing down, he continues to show the world why he's the greatest,” Davis said in the locker room. “During that stretch he actually looked at the bench and tried to get out of the game. We told him, 'You're not coming out.' He comes out and hits another three-pointer. He continues to surprise each of us because we just know what he is capable of and what he can do.”

Spectrum SportsNet @SpectrumSN

AD talked about LeBron's continued greatness and facing a talented big man in Domantas Sabonis. pic.twitter.com/gSFx4dsNWk

The Lakers outscored the Kings 44-33 in the fourth quarter and James was the engine behind the offensive outburst. He shot 6 of 6 from the field and had 16 points in the final frame.

LeBron completed his first triple-double of the 2024-25 NBA season with 32 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists.

The Lakers are off to a 3-0 start and are fifth in offensive rating (120.1). NBA.com. All five of LA's starters scored at least 16 points against the Kings, and the team went 14 of 34 from long range.

The early return of first-year head coach JJ Redick is certainly encouraging.

Kevin O'Connor @KevinOConnorNBA

JJ Redick is the real deal. The Lakers offense plays with so much movement. So many different levels of their actions. And AD was activated. Similar roster, new process. Redick is the difference.

And Saturday was a reminder that James continues to perform at an incredibly high level for a 39-year-old, even in his 22nd season in the league.

Preseason expectations for the Lakers were probably at their lowest since LeBron first signed in 2018. Bleacher Report's Andy Bailey had her at No. 13 in its Oct. 4 power rankings.

It's still early days in the new season, but Los Angeles could pose a serious threat in the Western Conference.

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