![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-12-10T041414Z_1569032387_MT1USATODAY22075501_RTRMADP_3_NBA-IN-SEASON-TOURNAMENT-INDIANA-PACERS-AT-LOS-ANGELES-LAKERS.jpg?width=600)
USA Today via Reuters
Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/2023-12-10T041414Z_1569032387_MT1USATODAY22075501_RTRMADP_3_NBA-IN-SEASON-TOURNAMENT-INDIANA-PACERS-AT-LOS-ANGELES-LAKERS.jpg?width=600)
USA Today via Reuters
Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
The Los Angeles Lakers have been on a rollercoaster of highs and lows. The team astounded fans by clinching victory in the In-Season Tournament 10 days ago. As they thrived to carry the winning momentum into the regular season, their decision to hoist the IST banner received an indifferent response from the fans. In their attempt to replicate the tournament’s success, the Lakers are now struggling to maintain the same level of energy.
The team currently finds itself with a 1-3 record in the last four games, resulting in a disappointing 15-12 record. As the Lakers grapple with their next steps, LeBron James defended his team by reflecting on the Indiana Pacers’ 1-4 record post the tourney, forcing analysts to delve into the nature of his remarks.
Chris Broussard probes into LeBron James’ comments
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
In a recent episode of THE ODD COUPLE podcast, renowned analysts Chris Broussard and Rob Parker kicked off by diving into the recent exploits of the Lakers. Chris Broussard took the lead, probing into LeBron James‘ defense of the squad, “Have you seen Indiana’s record since Vegas?” As the conversation unfolded, Rob Parker raised a compelling point, questioning whether it’s merely an “excuse for LeBron and the Lakers?” However, the two soon found common ground, acknowledging the Pacers’ 1-4 record post their tourney.
Following their triumph, the Lakers fell to the under-armed Dallas Mavericks, the low-seeded San Antonio Spurs, and the young New York Knicks. Adding to the woes, their lone victory was secured through a stroke of luck, capitalizing on a fortunate situation in the last minute to conquer the Spurs.
The upcoming challenge for the Lakers is a clash with the Chicago Bulls. They will enter the matchup riding high on the recent victory against the formidable Philadelphia 76ers.
The Lakers need to adjust through injuries
After a sluggish start to the season, the Lakers strategized for Austin Reaves to come off the bench. To fill the void, they elevated Cam Reddish to the starting lineup while ensuring that Reaves’ minutes were unchanged. The adjustment allowed them to stretch the floor and retain AR-15 during the closing minutes of games.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Read More – Heat Legend’s “Chills” From Michael Jordan’s Theme Music Enough to Snub LeBron James
Currently, the Lakers might not need to sweep huge changes, their challenge lies in adapting to the absence of key players. With a healthy roster, including the return of Gabe Vincent, the Lakers effortlessly sailed past opponents, remaining undefeated in the tourney.
Watch This Story – “Lakers unveil banner for LeBron James and Co’s 1st ever in-season glory”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
However, following the In Season Tournament journey, their injury woes have resurfaced. Even their key starters, such as Anthony Davis, LeBron James, and D’Angelo Russell, sat out games, exposing their rotation issues.
What did you think of the Lakers’ current record? Let us know in the comments.