It looks like the Los Angeles Lakers have still not recovered from Saturday’s grueling double-overtime game against the Warriors. LeBron James and Co. got decimated by the young Houston Rockets squad tonight. While many expected the Lakers to come out with a win against the inexperienced Rockets, Jalen Green and Co. had other plans.
The Houston Rockets bulldozed through the Lakers and blew them out 135-119. The Rockets were led by Alperen Sengun and Jalen Green, who ripped the Lakers’ defense apart with their scoring outburst. Green led the game in scoring with 34 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 assists. Sengun was not far behind, with 31 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 assists.
Houston’s role players also played a crucial role in tonight’s win. Cam Whitmore continued his impressive form and put on a show, coming off the bench. He had 20 points and 6 rebounds in the Rockets win. Jabari Smith Jr. and Dillon Brooks also had a decent performance and combined for 35 points.
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Meanwhile, the Lakers were struggling to get anything going in their favor. Their superstar duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis had an off night and could not make much impact. D’Angelo Russell tried to muscle a comeback for the Lakers, but to no avail. He had an impressive game despite the Lakers’ struggles and finished with 23 points. Apart from LeBron, Russell, and AD, no player on the Lakers roster could score many points. That has been the Lakers’ problem the entire season.
The Lakers’ inconsistency might lead to their downfall
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LeBron James and Co’s loss against the Houston Rockets is a perfect example of how inconsistent they have been all season. The Lakers played arguably the best game of the season against Stephen Curry and Co. on Saturday. They showcased their championship mettle and left everything they had on the floor.
LeBron scored 36 points, 20 rebounds, and 12 assists, becoming the oldest player in NBA history to post a triple-double. He also put up a career-high in rebounds and shocked everyone with his effort. The rest of the Lakers squad also played great in the last game. Five players other than LeBron scored in double digits.
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However, the Lakers’ performance tonight was the polar opposite of the last game. They could not stop the Rockets’ fast-paced offense and suffered a humiliating loss. That has been the Lakers’ story this season. They play great in one game and miserably in the next. If LeBron James and Co. want to contend for the Championship, they will have to be more consistent, like they were during the in-season tournament.
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