LeBron James Helps Save Victor Wembanyama’s Legacy as Spurs End Haunting Streak to a Handicapped Lakers

The San Antonio Spurs were on an 18-game losing streak heading into tonight’s clash against the Los Angeles Lakers. They are currently at the bottom of the Western Conference standings. So, not many expected Victor Wembanyama and co. to take down the in-form LeBron James-led Lakers. Wembanyama proved everyone wrong and beat the in-season tournament champions, who were playing the game shorthanded.

Here are 3-key takeaways as LeBron James helps save Victor Wembanyama’s legacy by putting an end to the Spurs’ 18-game losing streak.

1. The Lakers need Anthony Davis to win it all

The Lakers were handicapped heading into tonight’s game. Their superstar, Anthony Davis, was ruled out due to a lingering hip injury. AD dominated Victor Wembanyama and co. in the last game, scoring 37 points and 10 rebounds to get the Lakers a 122-119 win. The Lakers needed Davis’ scoring prowess and defensive presence to get past the Spurs tonight. Even though LeBron James had a decent game with 23 points and 14 assists, the Lakers’ defense could not stop the young Spurs roster from getting buckets. Tonight’s performance by the Lakers proves that they need Anthony Davis to be their star player to win games. AD has been in exceptional form recently, averaging 23.9 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks.

2. Victor Wembanyama is getting better with each game

Tonight’s 129-115 win over the Los Angeles Lakers improved the Spurs record to 4-20. But they are still one of the worst teams in the league. Amid their struggles, rookie Victor Wembanyama has shown great promise all season. He has shown signs of greatness from the start of the season, and he is getting better with each game.

Last week, Wembanyama became the youngest rookie in NBA history to post a 20-20 game. He had another monster game against the Lakers on Wednesday where he went off for 30 points, 13 rebounds, and 6 blocks. And the Lakers had no answer for the 7’4 Center tonight. He dominated LeBron James and co. with 13 points and 15 rebounds. Even though the Spurs are losing most games, they will be happy to watch the progress of their 19-year-old rookie.

Read More: Is Victor Wembanyama Already Better Than LeBron James at 19?

3. Jarred Vanderbilt is struggling this season

Jarred Vanderbilt was one of the key players in the Lakers’ success last season. He helped LeBron James and co. reach the Western Conference finals by playing great on both ends of the floor. But Vando has been unable to find his rhythm this season. He has missed 20 games this season due to injury. Even when Vanderbilt is on the court, he has not been as productive as last season. Vanderbilt is averaging only 1.2 points and 4.5 rebounds in the 6 games he has played so far. The Lakers need Vanderbilt in peak form to make a deeper run in the playoffs this season.

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