The Lakers have reached the lowest of the lows. The team with the most trophies (17) in the history of the NBA does not look like a team at this point. The fans are disappointed and upset. LeBron James and co have won only 2 of their last 10 games. The Lakers most recently lost against the Toronto Raptors and it was the same season-long story.
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The Lakers hosted the Raptors on Monday night, and it was an unconvincing display from the home side. They lost 103-114 and never looked to threaten or challenge the in-form Raptors. LeBron James had the most points. He finished the game with 30 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and two frustrated outbursts.
ALSO READ: James throws a fit at referee during the loss against Raptors.
After a foul against him in the first half, James lashed out at the decision. Later in the game, he also reacted to Scottie Barnes pushing him. LeBron threw the ball back hard at him to get the ball out of bounds from Barnes’ touch.
Chris Broussard defends LeBron James
Chris Broussard talked on First Things First and presented his views on how the fans are judging the altercations LeBron had out of utter frustration.
“Have we gotten so soft that we are jumping on LeBron cause he threw the ball too hard? Oh my, he almost hurt Scottie Barnes. Stop it,” said Chris.
"I see competitiveness [from LeBron] before I see frustration. Sure, there's frustration too. … I see a guy who is trying to set an example for his teammates, who desperately wants to win & get in the play-in. LeBron is not mailing it in & I love that." — @Chris_Broussard pic.twitter.com/znUnPVizjD
— First Things First (@FTFonFS1) March 15, 2022
“Yes, he is frustrated. He is 37 years old. He is playing great basketball. I see a guy that’s trying to set an example for his teammates, that desperately wants to win & get in the play-in. I mean, he is not mailing it in & I love that.”
“This shows that LeBron is not just ‘who cares about winning at this point, lemme just get Kareem’s record,’ he’s trying to get into the play-in because he knows Chris Broussard said he’s still got a puncher’s chance and LeBron believes it as much as I do. And he’s trying to get there and I like it. I like it. I think this is what they need in the Lakers land. It might not help but Wildes, this is good. I’m not mad at LeBron at all,” he added.
He also just tried to kill Scottie Barnes. pic.twitter.com/mFB5H2VjSR
— KristineA (@KristineAok) March 15, 2022
The most recent loss for the Lakers has clarified that they need to find a solution to their problems. The constant struggle this season has put a big question mark on their hopes of qualifying for the playoffs. While it is still very much possible, it would be very difficult to say the least.
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They still hope to bring Anthony Davis back to full fitness. Russell Westbrook is another concern where his turnovers and lack of efficiency has got them struggling in games. Although Russ is among the greats of the game, one has to agree he is far away from his best.
WATCH THIS STORY: Top 50 point performances of James’ career.
Malik Monk, Austin Reeves, and Carmelo Anthony have played their part, but Frank Vogel would expect more from them going into the business end of the season.
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LeBron James has been dropping masterclass performances time and again. However, he needs all the support he can get. The Lakers need the stars to align for them and their stars to turn up in their best forms to create a comeback this season.