The Los Angeles Lakers dominated the Portland Trail Blazers, securing a convincing 134-110 victory and propelling themselves back to a .500 record for the season. After a gradual start, the Lakers seized control of the game with a newfound vigor. D’Angelo Russell took center stage with a 34-point performance, leading the team to success. LeBron James contributed 28 points, while Anthony Davis notched 14 points and 14 rebounds.
Coming off a disappointing loss to the Brooklyn Nets, the Lakers were hungry for a crucial victory. As they breezed through the game with plays worthy of highlight reels, one particular moment caught the attention of their top scorer.
D’Angelo Russell marks a dream play with LeBron James
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Amidst D’Lo’s third 30-point game of the season, a standout moment captured the essence of his joy. For him, it was one of those plays that kids dream of during their early years. Reflecting on the play during the post-game interview, Russell expressed his disbelief, stating, “Never thought I’d be able to throw a bounce pass lob to LeBron James in a game.” The highlight occurred in the middle of the second quarter when LeBron’s quick response to a loose ball ignited a fastbreak, culminating in an extraordinary connection between Russell and James.
D'Angelo: "Never thought I'd be able to throw a bounce pass lob to LeBron James in a game." https://t.co/NgynAD7jNC pic.twitter.com/eNU2nVLK5W
— Oh no he didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) January 22, 2024
D’Lo’s delight is completely justified, considering that only a chosen few players can claim the honor of connecting with LeBron James on alley-oop plays. After all, the sole play became a trademark during LeBron’s ‘Heatles’ era in Miami, sending even opposing arenas into a frenzy.
With this latest win, Russell now maintains averages of 16.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 2.7 rebounds per game. Furthermore, he is shooting 48.1% from the field and 41.2% from beyond the arc. Over the last five games, he has elevated his performance even further. He is averaging 27.2 points with an outstanding 56% from the field, 54% from three-point range, and a perfect 100% from the free-throw line.
James and D’Lo’s connection did not stop at the lob
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Entering the fourth with a comfortable 17-point lead, the Lakers owed much of their advantage to Russell’s explosive third quarter. He scored 13 points in the third while nailing three three-pointers. The momentum carried into the final quarter as LeBron and D’Lo sealed the victory early.
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The dynamic duo dominated for the team’s first 19 points of the fourth quarter. Russell, with his hot hand, sank two more threes alongside a dazzling fast break lay, while LeBron capitalized from beyond the arc, free-throw line, and open lanes. The lead quickly ballooned to 23 points, allowing the starters to rest for the final six minutes.
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Returning to the starting lineup five games ago, D’Angelo Russell has displayed a determined aggressiveness. With that, he is consistently complementing the efforts of James and Anthony Davis in the process.
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