‘Gonna Need That’: LeBron James Praises Lakers Teammates For Stepping Up In Anthony Davis’ Absence

The Los Angeles Lakers returned to winning ways tonight with a victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. The absence of Anthony Davis wasn’t felt after a combined team effort helped the Lakers win by eight points.

Their new arrivals, Dennis Schroder, Montrezl Harrell, Wesley Matthews, and Marc Gasol, stepped up and had crucial contributions tonight. Their efforts impressed team captain LeBron James, who praised them later.

During the post-game interview, LeBron said, “To have the production that we had tonight from our group, Dennis, Trez, Wes, Marc, they were huge for us. We went out in the off-season and got really good pieces, and tonight was an example of that. Having one of our biggest pieces out, everyone came in and chipped in a little bit more. We’re gonna need that throughout the stretch.”

Schroder had 24 points, Harrell had 17 points, and Gasol had 11 points, which included three crucial three-pointers. Matthews just had three points but was everywhere on defense.

Coach Frank Vogel also impressed with the Lakers’ new arrivals

Not having a player of Davis’ caliber is a huge jolt to any team. He is their second-best player and is their pillar on defense. But the rest of the team filled in perfectly in his absence, which left coach Frank Vogel impressed.

“I like what we have to go to war with. We have a lot of guys on this roster that I believe in,” Vogel said after the game.

While there was a healthy contribution from multiple players, it was LeBron who led the team. He had 30 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists, and led the team in each of those categories. His leadership is also a vital factor in the Lakers’ wins. He steps up on both ends when the team needs him and makes the money plays.

Bron’s crucial go-ahead shots are often highlighted, but tonight one of his most clutch plays was a charge he took late in the fourth quarter. The Timberwolves were slowly gaining momentum, and if not for the charge, they would have closed in and possibly won or sent the game to overtime.

But LeBron saved the day, as he helped the Lakers gain momentum before their huge clash against the Nets on Thursday.

ALSO READ – ‘Nogo LeBron’: Fans Troll Lakers’ LeBron James After Embarrassing Logo Three Attempt