LeBron James returned to start his 23rd NBA season, distributing 12 assists as the Lakers routed Utah 140-126 at home.

The Lakers shot a season-best 59.5% and stifled Utah’s defense in the second half, limiting them to 32 points in the first 21 minutes of the half.

With their full roster available for the first time, coach JJ Redick did not play Jarred Vanderbilt and reduced Marcus Smart’s minutes.

1It was the first time Deandre Ayton played in a game on the same team as LeBron James , but not the first time they had connected on an alley-oop. That first bucket came when the now-27-year-old Ayton was in eighth grade. It was at James’ basketball camp in Las Vegas.

“I finished it,” Ayton said with a bewildered smile. “I couldn’t believe he threw it. Here I am again. I can’t believe h

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