After enduring a topsy-turvy season, the Los Angeles Lakers have finally found their rhythm. They have won 8 out of their last 10 matches. In fact, the Lakers are currently on a three-game winning streak. Out of which, their performance against the Washington Wizards on 3rd April was particularly encouraging, as they controlled the proceedings throughout the game and won by a scoreline of 125-120.
Anthony Davis led the way for the Lakers by recording 35 points and 18 rebounds. LeBron James played a crucial supporting role, as he scored 25 points and dished out 9 assists in 36 minutes of playing time. Aside from his incredible performance, King James was involved in a scary incident with Wizards’ star Deni Avdija. The incident occurred when LeBron scored a contested layup against Avdija. However, the former inadvertently struck Avdija on the back of his head with his elbow.
LeBron catches Deni Avdija with an elbow. 😳
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) April 4, 2024
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Deni Avdija played only 22 minutes as a result of the incident due to concussion protocols. Following the game, he criticized LeBron James for not being considerate enough to ask about his well being. Avdija said, “I don’t think he did it on purpose. I at least expected like if I get hit in the face or I hit somebody in the face, I expect to go and check on him. I felt like he didn’t do it. So, that got me a little bit pissed off.”
Due to concussion, Avdija could only manage to record 7 points, 2 assists, and 2 rebounds. However, Deni bounced back quickly as he scored 22 points and grabbed 12 boards in the very next match against the Portland Trail Blazers. As for LeBron James and the Lakers, they face the Cleveland Cavaliers later tonight.
Can LeBron James lead the Lakers to another NBA championship?
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Even the most die-hard fans of the Los Angeles Lakers would admit that this season has been disappointing, despite winning the inaugural In-Season tournament. However, their form and performances have significantly improved post All-Star break. In fact, LA has won 14 out of the 21 games they have played since the All-Star break. This form has catapulted them within touching distance of a guaranteed playoff spot. They currently occupy the 9th spot in Western Conference standings, with 44 wins from 77 games.
Despite their late-season resurgence, very few experts have backed the Lakers’ title credentials because of their inconsistent performances. However, with the season at such a crucial juncture, the Lakers have become increasingly reliant on Anthony Davis and LeBron James. And to be fair, the duo have delivered in recent weeks. AD has averaged 24.9 points, 14.6 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in his last 10 games. Meanwhile, LeBron has averaged 25.6 points, 8.7 assists, and 8.3 rebounds in the same period.
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While AD and LeBron James have played well, the Lakers lack a legitimate third option, who can step up when things aren’t falling into place for AD or LeBron. At the moment, D’Angelo Russell has played that role. However, he remains an inconsistent performer and has had his fair share of struggles in the postseason. People should rule out LeBron and the Lakers at their own peril, but a title win looks extremely improbable at the moment.
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