In an earlier matchup this year, the Los Angeles Lakers suffered a significant setback as they succumbed to the Memphis Grizzlies. “We S**k,” LeBron James expressed his frustration with the team, diverting his gaze away from the microphones. LeBron posted 32 points while Anthony Davis contributed 31. The loss highlighted a glaring deficiency within the team, beyond their superstars.
The Memphis Grizzlies found the game to be a relatively easy victory. Their superstar, Ja Morant, was the fourth-best scorer on the squad. Both teams had five players scoring in double digits. However, the Grizzlies’ top scorers averaged 24 points, collectively amassing 120 points. This outpaced the entire Lakers’ squad, which managed 113 points in total.
LeBron James gives a blueprint for the Lakers
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Now, as the Lakers won against their Los Angeles counterpart, the Clippers, LeBron James added to his previous comments, giving a blueprint of how the squad can overturn his candid remarks. Discussing the recent victory, LeBron James initially emphasized the Lakers’ potential to thrive with timely contributions from the bench. He believes that consistent performances from the reserves can translate to on-court consistency for the team.
However, James asserted that, above all, attention to detail reigns supreme. “We gotta be better with our details,” he declared, referencing his earlier comments about the team.
"Tonight was a good step in the right direction, we want try to continue that trend going into the next game." @KingJames (25 PTS, 8 REB, 7 AST) with @LakersReporter following tonight's win. pic.twitter.com/qtksvVcHXa
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) January 8, 2024
Riding high on their newfound squad chemistry, the Clippers have had massive success in their last 17 games. Leading the offensive charge, Paul George and Ivica Zubac contributed 22 points each, with Zubac securing a double-double by grabbing an impressive 19 rebounds.
Read More – LeBron James’ Ferocious Finish Reminds James Worthy of 76ers Legend’s Iconic Move: “Dunk of the Century”
Additionally, Kawhi Leonard and James Harden each notched 15 points, while Russell Westbrook added 13 points to the scoreboard.
The Lakers can build off their recent win
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Securing their second consecutive victory against the surging Clippers, the Lakers displayed a well-rounded performance. Anthony Davis contributed 22 points and 10 rebounds, while LeBron James added 25 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists. The superstar duo’s solid performances were complemented by key plays down the stretch from Taurean Prince and D’Angelo Russell.
Despite momentarily surrendering a 10-point lead, the Lakers never trailed in the fourth quarter, emphasizing their improved team cohesion for their fourth victory in the last 14 games. LeBron James’ remarks suggest that the Lakers should analyze the game from a rotational efficiency standpoint and use it as a foundation for upcoming matches.
Watch This Story – After Russell Westbrook, Kawhi Leonard Is Ready For A Major Sacrifice For James Harden
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Currently sitting in the 10th position in the conference, trailing behind the Phoenix Suns and the Houston Rockets, the Lakers are closely pursued by the Golden State Warriors. With the playoffs approaching, the Lakers must embark on a comeback run to secure some breathing room in the playoffs.