The Los Angeles Lakers are hoping to turn things around during their ongoing Game 3 against the Denver Nuggets. Having already lost their two previous playoff matchups, a win here is the only thing that will still maintain their chances to remain in the battle. With just 3 minutes and 6 seconds remaining in the third quarter, things are not looking good as the Nuggets lead by a score of 101-84. A major reason for the Lakers’ lapse is due to D’Angelo Russell, who has scored 0 points during his 24 minutes on the court.
Even before the game concluded, many fans took to X to share their reactions. One of them didn’t choose to mince words and instantly called out the Lakers roster on their “Disgusting” display of on-court prowess.
Disgusting performance by the Lakers.
— Juanito (@ElLayJuan11) April 26, 2024
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The official X account of ‘Overtime’ highlighted a clip from the Lakers-Nuggets clash. As Russell missed another shot, onlookers could be heard booing the player. For those who couldn’t be present to witness the game at the Crypto.Com Arena, they got the opportunity to make their frustration heard in the comments section. One of them made a connection between Russell’s jersey and his points total during the game to deliver a personal roast to the player.
He couldn't even match his jersey number on points 😭😭😭
— Reaver (@reaver_T) April 26, 2024
During a timeout, the Lakers were in a huddle to discuss the next step moving forward. To everyone’s surprise, D’Angelo Russell was instead sitting on the side benches, scrolling through his phone and eating. One social media user expressed his disappointment towards the player, stating that he is not showing any “remorse” or “accountability” over not scoring even a single point during the matchup. Furthermore, he criticized a few Lakers fans as well who may have stated at one point that the 28-year-old possesses ‘leadership skills’.
Can’t wait for this guy to leave. No remorse or accountability whatsoever. Is this who y’all said got leadership skills?
— Drone on a cruise 👾 (@Kwintarget) April 26, 2024
Another individual sarcastically thought that maybe the player was seeking the help of the internet to help get him back into the groove of things.
That better be a 3 point shot tutorial
— Kaden Marley (@Monking218) April 26, 2024
Another individual sarcastically thought that maybe the player was seeking the help of the internet to help get him back into the groove of things. Amidst all the negative comments, there was one user who highlighted his continued belief in the Lakers. He stated that instead of pushing Russell down, anyone who would be present during Game 4 at the Crypto.Com arena should instead motivate the player.
I am a laker fan. Who ever is going to the game tomorrow how about we give Russell a standing ovation and help increase his confidence instead of tearing him down.
— Jonah Lowe (@JonahLowe44064) April 26, 2024
Overall, the general feeling towards the Lakers’ 28-year-old point guard was not a welcoming one. While other players like LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Austin Reaves attempted to keep the score up, Russell’s second abysmal playoff performance prevented his team from breaking off a long running losing streak.
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Despite zero points, Darvin Ham continues to hold his faith in D’Angelo Russell
The Lakers lost their third consecutive playoff game by a score of 112-105. Russell ended his night with 0 points, 0-7 field goals, 0-6 three pointers and 0-0 free throws. From all the above reactions, one may presume that Lakers fans may have given up on seeing a good game from the player. Despite this, Lakers head coach Darvin Ham seems to have made it clear that he isn’t giving up until the last moment.
During the post-game press conference, Ham proceeded to discuss Russell by saying that it was an “unfortunate” night for the 28-year-old. He expressed his confidence that the player will recover from his slump as he stated, “He had some good looks that didn’t go down, just like Game 1. He bounced back in Game 2 and I expect him to bounce back in Game 4.”
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The Lakers will now need to win their three remaining playoff games, and an additional one, if they wish to proceed to the next stage of the tournament. Game 4 may present D’Angelo Russell with yet another opportunity to put up a memorable performance. An opportunity that he would not want to let go off.