"I had to redeem myself" - LeBron James says he had to make game-winner after blowing layup against Jazz

LeBron James made the game-winning layup in the LA Lakers' 135-133 overtime win over the Utah Jazz on Tuesday. James had the opportunity to give the Lakers the win in regulation but missed it. He redeemed himself in the extra period, though, as the Lakers won their fourth straight.

With less than 30 seconds left in overtime and the game tied at 133-all, "The King" drove to the basket with ease and made the layup to give the Lakers the lead. Talen Horton-Tucker had a chance to force a second overtime, but his jump shot was too strong.

In his postgame interview, LeBron James explained that he had to redeem himself after failing to secure a win in regulation. James noted that he had to go quick for the 2-for-1 just in case he missed it again.

"I wanted to go quick," James said. "At least if I miss it, they come down, we get a stop, we get another crack at it. And I had to redeem myself for the end of regulation. I smoked the layup. ... I had to make up for it, and I was able to make up for it."

James also explained how important the next three games are for the LA Lakers. He's not worried about finishing in the top six. He would like the team to have more chemistry to end the regular season. He also wants himself to be ready given that he missed a month of action recently due to a foot injury.

"It's all about chemistry," James said. "The more minutes we can get on the floor with one another, the better we'll be. ... I'm thinking of putting my feet in the ice bucket right now. I haven't play that many minutes in about five and a half weeks. I'm thinking about getting my body ready."

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LeBron James has best game since returning from injury

LeBron James of the LA Lakers against the Utah Jazz

LeBron James missed a month of action due to a right foot tendon injury. He has played well since returning on Mar. 26 but has not had a huge game. That changed on Tuesday against the Utah Jazz when James had his best game since coming back from injury.

"The King" had 37 points, five rebounds and six assists to lead the LA Lakers. Austin Reaves had another huge night with 28 points, three rebounds and six assists, while Anthony Davis contributed 21 points, 14 rebounds and six assists, while Rui Hachimura scored 16 points off the bench.

The Lakers have three games remaining in the regular season. They will end their road trip at home against the LA Clippers before welcoming the Phoenix Suns and the Jazz.

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