On Sunday night at Crypto.com Arena, the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Sacramento Kings 125-101 to end a three-game losing streak. The game gave a team still trying to figure out who they are a much-needed boost of confidence and clarity.
Veteran leader LeBron James and star rookie Luka Dončić took charge early, energizing the team and the home crowd as the Lakers dealt with Austin Reaves’ calf injury and recent losses.
LeBron had a productive night, and Dončić scored a ton of goals.
In the first few minutes of the game, LeBron James made his first three shots and finished 11-for-13 from the field. It was his most productive night as a Laker and one of his best shooting performances in his 23-year career. In addition to igniting the Lakers’ offense, his 84.6% shooting percentage set the tone for the team’s overall performance.
With 15 of his game-high 34 points scored in the second quarter, Dončić took control and gave Los Angeles the scoring boost they needed to take the lead.
Bears Fruit Team Meeting
After an open team meeting and additional practice, the Lakers went into the game with the intention of starting over after a depressing 119-96 loss to the Houston Rockets on Christmas Day. The players gave one of their best all-around performances of the season in response to head coach JJ Redick’s description of the practice as “uncomfortable” but necessary.
L.A. led 68-53 at the half and almost doubled that lead with a 13-2 run early in the second half, which was marked by better execution on both ends of the court and improved defense.
Contributions from Everyone on the Roster
LeBron and Dončić led the way, but a number of teammates provided the Lakers with important support:
• Nick Smith Jr. scored 21 points in his 24 minutes off the bench, going a perfect 7-for-7 from the field.
• Deandre Ayton scored 11 points and pulled down 11 rebounds for a double-double.
• Rui Hachimura used effective shooting to score 12 points.
• Jake LaRavia’s 11 points, four assists, and two steals off the bench were crucial.
The Lakers won all four quarters for the first time this season, demonstrating their increased concentration and intensity throughout the contest.
Considering the Future
The win gives the Lakers momentum as they get ready for future games and puts them back on track following a difficult period. Los Angeles demonstrated that it can still make an impact in the Western Conference when its stars and supporting cast are in sync, as evidenced by Dončić’s continued development as a franchise centerpiece and LeBron’s impending 41st birthday.
As they continue their schedule, the Lakers will try to improve on this performance in an effort to maintain consistency throughout a season that has seen its fair share of highs and lows and to solidify their position in the competitive West.