All of the important things went right for the Los Angeles Lakers in their win against the Memphis Grizzlies. They returned back to winning ways. Anthony Davis erupted for a seismic double-double. And LeBron James made his return after being away from for one week. Likewise, the ceremonious comeback had James feeling great when he spoke to the media after the game.

Still, the topic of discussion as a soon-to-be 40-year-old largely revolved around his mindset. Citing personal reasons for his absence, James spoke about the hurdles he has to pass through every season. “No different from any other here,” said the Akron Hammer. Yet, physically, it’s probably the season that will test James the most.

Notably, LeBron James has been playing through a foot injury throughout the season. And even with the break, it continues to be a lingering issue. “It’s an everyday thing. Something that has been lingering for the past few years,”. The little rest though did help him recover from a previous blow. “But I was able to do a lot of great things for not only that. I got knee’d in the Atlanta game at the end of regulation by AD so that’s now back to 100%,” he told the reporters.

In his first game back, James did take some time to fire his engine. However, he did enough to compliment Anthony Davis in the six-point win against the Memphis Grizzlies. LeBron James added 18 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists to the mix, including seven points in the fourth quarter to close out the contest.

Still dealing with managing his injury, this time around it seems to be taking longer for the King to get into his element.

LeBron James is going to have to manage himself this season

To begin the season, James, despite the miles on him, aimed to feature in all 82 games. It contradicted what JJ Redick had in mind. Obviously, the main concern of over-exhausting LeBron James in the regular season is him being out of the gas when the playoff run-up. Hence, it’s vital that the Lakers are selective with his playing time.

It goes against the way James approaches the game. Even under Darvin Ham, he openly ridiculed the minutes restricted levied upon him. Tonight while speaking about his absence, the four-time MVP claimed “If it was up to me, I probably would have played in that Portland game,” he told reporters.

However, Redick might be a visionary to limit LeBron James. While not drastic, there have been signs of decline in James’ output this season. The NBA’s al-time scorer is averaging the least points since his rookie season. He can still occasionally torch defenses for 35, but the price is a longer recovery time. With that in mind, managing minutes and even sitting out a few games could be critical for James.

Especially with a nagging injury on him, the need to address it prior to the postseason would be of utmost priority to the Lakers’ medical staff. Even though pushing 40, LeBron James remains integral to the title hopes for the Lakers. Reserving himself for the right moments and wisely operating through the game is of paramount importance this season.