LeBron James returned to Cleveland tonight for the first time since joining the Los Angeles Lakers in the offseason. He was welcomed back to Cleveland with a strong ovation.
LeBron James receives a warm welcoming back in Cleveland!
WATCH the action on ESPN pic.twitter.com/qUV7x0BNmF
— NBA (@NBA) November 22, 2018
In his first game opposing the Cavaliers since 2014 with the Miami Heat, James contributed 32 points, 14 rebounds and 7 assists in 36 minutes, as the Lakers defeated the Cavaliers 109-105.
In the first quarter of the contest, LeBron was honored with a tribute video dedicated to his achievements on and off the court during his tenure with the Cavs.
Thank you, @KingJames! ? pic.twitter.com/LoeMSvbDLb
— Cleveland Cavaliers (@cavs) November 22, 2018
The Cavs’ efforts to fend off the onslaught by James and the Lakers were led by Cedi Osman and Jordan Clarkson. Osman, who spent most of last season playing backup to LeBron, contributed 21 points and 7 rebounds in 42 minutes of game time. Clarkson, who joined the Cavaliers in a trade involving former all-star Isaiah Thomas last season, had a strong contribution off the bench with 20 points and 6 assists.
The win improves the Lakers’ record to 10-7 on the season, while the Cavs’ continue to struggle with a record of 2-14. The loss further cements Cleveland’s status as last place in the Eastern Conference.
