LOS ANGELES – Lakers star forward LeBron James returned to the lineup Sunday against the Memphis Grizzlies.

According to Lakers coach JJ Redick, James missed LA’s last two games due to soreness in his left foot and was away from the team for personal reasons.

Because of the NBA Cup, the Lakers were able to take a prudent approach to the schedule to give James time to recover and rest his body. LA plays just two games in 10 days from December 9th to 18th.

Redick said he and James hatched a plan for the 22-year veteran to take some time for himself before LA’s 107-98 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Dec. 8 – the first game of the season, that James missed.

“I just hope he gets mentally and physically healthy,” Redick said of the rest. “I played 15 (seasons) and was emotionally, mentally, physically drained, drained. I put everything I had into this game. I had nothing left. For people like him and (Chris Paul), the Tom Bradys of the world, the Roger Federers of the world, it’s hard to imagine this level of sustained excellence lasting this long because it takes a toll on all of you, not just Your body.”

James last played on December 6th and had eight days off between games.

This season, James is averaging 23 points on 49.5% shooting (35.9% from 3), 9.1 assists and 8.0 rebounds. Redick said he is in constant contact with James and his longtime athletic trainer Mike Mancias to manage the four-time MVP’s workload as he approaches his 40th birthday at the end of the month.

James’ return coincides with Redick trying out a new starting lineup for the first time this season, with Max Christie joining James, Anthony Davis, Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura in the first unit.