LeBron James was one of the bright spots in the LA Lakers' 116-104 Game 3 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday. The four-time NBA champion's 38-point double-double kept the Lakers within striking distance, but a series of clutch plays by Anthony Edwards denied the visitors a win.
James propped up 22 points in the first half, powering the Lakers to a 58-54 lead at the Target Center. The veteran forward took over the offense as Luka Doncic struggled with a stomach bug. He shot 9-12 from the field, including 2-4 from deep, in the first half. He also recorded six rebounds, two assists, one steal, and one block.
The 40-year-old's regular bursts on offense kept LA in the game after its sluggish start. He ended the game with 10 boards, four assists, two steals, and two blocks. LeBron James came into the game averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists while shooting 51.3% from the field, including 37.6% from beyond the arc.

Explore the NBA Draft 2024 with our free NBA Mock Draft Simulator & be the GM of your favorite NBA team.
JJ Redick provides crucial injury update on LeBron James ahead of Game 4
Ahead of the Lakers' all-important Game 4 on the road, JJ Redick provided an update on LeBron James' condition. He said the veteran forward was moving better after sustaining a groin injury against the Houston Rockets in the regular season.
"He's moving better," Redick told the media. "He's getting healthier by the day. Typically it's a week, 2 week injury. It's been 2 weeks tonight since the Houston game."
James showed no signs of discomfort in Game 3, which bodes well for the Lakers as they gear up for a stern challenge in Game 4 on Sunday night.
Los Angeles Lakers Fan? Check out the latest Lakers depth chart, schedule, and roster updates all in one place.