Monday, November 12, 2018

Lakers Weekly Roundup (11/11) - The "Tyson Chandler Effect"

*Some NSFW language*

In an effort to bolster the Lakers' defense and rebounding, LeBron James turned to an old friend who has the 2nd most Finals appearance than he has. That is James Jones, who's the acting GM for the Phoenix Suns. With the history surrounding these two since Miami and Cleveland, James Jones decided to do LeBron a favor and reached a buyout agreement with veteran Center and NBA champion, Tyson Chandler. Because honestly he is no use for a rebuilding Suns team anymore with the emerging DeAndre Ayton.  At least we have one LA native come home and play for the Lakers. Congrats Tyson, you did something Paul George doesn't have enough balls to do. This is your Lakers Weekly Roundup.

11/07: vs. Minnesota 110-114 [W] (5-6)

HIGHLIGHTS

Headband LeBron and Derrick Rose back to MVP form. What is this? 2011? It certainly felt like that as both teams traded shots one after another. Despite all of "the Return" jokes, I've always been a fan of Derrick Rose and I wished he got back to MVP form. When the Lakers looked like they were gonna run away, Derrick "Rose" up to the occasion to bring the Timberwolves back and steal one from the Lakers. But, the heroics of the once aspiring "King Slayer" once again couldn't bring down the King and his men. Definitely, the addition of Tyson Chandler helped because the Lakers finally have somebody who will box out and get players in sync on defense. In fact, the loss caused a ripple effect on Jimmy Butler's tenure with Minnesota, sending him to "The Process" yesterday. At least the drama is over.

11/10: @ Sacramento 101-86 [W] (6-6)

HIGHLIGHTS

Oh boy, prior to this game, Lonzo Ball was questionable due to a possible ankle injury. The flood gates of "he's dodging De'Aaron Fox" just opened up once more. Lonzo decided to man up and battle against his nemesis. Though Fox won the battle with 21 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals compared to Lonzo's mere 4 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal, Zo ultimately won the war this game. The Kings have some pretty good potential, but they don't have a LeBron James. The Lakers smothered the Sucramento Queens to finally get on that .500 threshold, piling up arguably their most complete win of the season so far. Again it's against the Queens, so that's not saying much.

11/11: vs. Atlanta 106-107 [W] (7-6)

HIGHLIGHTS

We're just reminded this game that no lead is safe when it comes to these Lakers. I can't believe that this team almost squandered a 14 point lead against a rebuilding Hawks team of all people. Defense disappeared in the 4th quarter. The Lakers couldn't hit a free throw this game if their life depended on it. LeBron James did as much as he can to LeChoke the game away. Settling for step back threes against a 41-year old Vinsanity and of course, missing two key free throws. *YOU BLEW IT FOR ME IN FANTASY BBALL!* In comes Kyle Kuzma to save the King from choking, securing a rebound, but missing a shot. However that helped put LeBron in position for redemption with a putback dunk. On defense, the "Tyson Chandler Effect" was on full display as he made a game saving block on the help against Trae Young to seal the game. That block was inches away from a goaltend. Nonetheless, this win puts the Lakers above .500 for the first time this season.

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