First Week:
1/1: vs. Phoenix 107-117 [W] (27-7)
1/3: vs. New Orleans 113-123 [W] (28-7)
1/5: vs. Detroit 99-106 [W] (29-7)
Second Week:
1/7: vs. New York 87-117 [W] (30-7)
1/10: @ Dallas 129-114 [W] (31-7)
1/11: @ Oklahoma City 125-110 [W] (32-7)
Oh my goodness, I have a lot of games to cover after pushing this for awhile now. I apologize for that. I am currently busy with some things. But first and foremost, belated Happy New Year to Laker Nation. I hope you all are off to a good start to 2020 as the Lakers are off to a good start this year. The LakeShow still managed to end 2019 on a high note despite a 5-game losing streak with wins over Portland and Dallas as recapped in Roundup #9. And they're carrying that over by going 6-0 so far, ringing in the New Year.
I watched highlights and most of the portions of the games of the Lakers' first two weeks and January and I figured for this week, I might as well condense these games instead of providing my quick thoughts on each individual game (thanks lazy me).
If we compare, the first week was a week of "unsatisfactory wins." The Lakers had three games against sub .500 teams. If we go back to that Phoenix game on NYD, that game should've been a wire-to-wire blowout. They outscored the Suns 17-43 in the first quarter, putting 74 total points at the half. They should put their foot on the gas and let LeBron and AD rest throughout the 4th. But nope, they let them back in the game before regaining control in the 4th. The same can be said for the games against the Pelicans and Pistons.
Against the Pelicans, it was a homecoming for Zo, B.I., and Josh Hart. There's no denying that they're good young players. They were just put in a bad situation on a team that expects championships out of the gate. Still, it was worth the trade for prime AD. AD burned the Pelicans again with 46 points. Danny Green went off for 25 points going 6-10 from deep. Still, LeBron and AD are not sitting out until about 1 minute left in the 4th when the game is well out of reach. Against the Pistons, the finish of the game had trap game written all over it. Detroit is lifeless team, yet Derrick Rose returned to MVP form with 28 points and almost singlehandedly carried the Pistons to victory. But, the Lakers prevailed with a block party hosted by Davis (8 blocks), JaVale McGee (6 blocks), and Dwight Howard (5 blocks). I should point out KCP and Avery Bradley sustained injuries this game, which explains the lack of production in the back court with the exception of 13 points from Caruso.
The 2nd week was a lot better. I won't go too deep into the Knicks game because honestly, the Knicks are a dumpster fire. It was embarrassing they swept the Lakers last season. But, the tables have turned this time around. The only notable story that game was AD's scary fall while he was going up for a dunk. Luckily, X-Rays came out negative and he's going to miss a few games with a bruised tailbone barring any setback. The back-to-back wins against Dallas and OKC were most impressive as they continued their dominance on the road. The Lakers took the season series against the Mavs. LeBron James went beast mode as a scorer and rebounder with 35 points, 16 rebounds, and 7 assists sans Anthony Davis. We tend to forget that LeBron can literally play all 5 positions. JaVale and Dwight were in foul trouble this game and that freed up the idea to play 'Bron at Center. Meanwhile, the defense did a good job keeping Luka in check for the first half. He made a meme out of himself, ripping part of his jersey off. The thing about the Mavericks is they live and die by the three and getting Doncic going is the key to that. Once he struggles, their offense fizzles out and that was the case on Friday. Yes, they didn't have Porzingis, but the Lakers didn't have AD. So that cancels out.
Against OKC, no 'Bron. No AD. No problem. Before this game, the Thunder have become the biggest surprise in this stretch of the season winning seven of their eight games and in the 7th seed in the West. This is all because Chris Paul has found the fountain of youth with his scoring and playmaking and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has emerged as a scorer during for OKC. This game was expected to be tough for the Lakers without their top two stars. That's until Kyle Kuzma re-introduced himself. He must've heard the trade rumors for Bogdan Bogdanovic from Sacramento as he poured 36 points on the Thunder. However, this was a great team effort win. Rondo stepped up with a near triple-double of 21 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 assists. The bench had solid contributions from Quinn Cook (13 points), Dwight Howard (12 points), Troy Daniels (12 points), and Alex Caruso (11 points). You think the Lakers lack depth? Hold Rob Pelinka's contract extension and promotion to VP of Basketball Operations.
Showing posts with label New York Knicks. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New York Knicks. Show all posts
Sunday, January 12, 2020
Monday, March 18, 2019
Lakers Weekly Roundup (03/17) - Tank for Draft Pick Mode Activated
*Some NSFW language*
Oh, hi guys! You're still here checking on the status of the LakeShow. Well, let's just say that after a shitty start to March, arguably the most important month for playoff-aspiring teams, the Lakers' playoff hopes are dead. If you've been living under a rock these last few days, Lonzo Ball is shut down for the season. Brandon Ingram (best wishes to him), shut down as well. LeBron James? Held to a minutes restriction and will sit out on back-to-back nights. And why even bother? This roster is so shorthanded that it's filled with nothing more but players who barely get any playing and G-Leaguers.
In this week, LeBron returns out to the East one last time. The Lakers embark on their 5-game road trip to the East Coast that will culminate on Tuesday against the Bucks. No more dramatic intros, let's jump right into this week's Lakers' Weekly Roundup.
03/12: @ Chicago 123-107 [W] (31-36)
HIGHLIGHTS
Congratulations Lakers, you've finally won a game in March. But, not like it matters anyway. This is a Bulls team that's not even good and is still in rebuild mode. I'll give the Lakers credit. Chicago had an 18 point lead in the first quarter. Then the Lakers stormed right back en route to a victory. This is all powered by big games from LeBron, Kuzma, and surprisingly, KCP. LeBron lead the team with 36 points. This game was literally LeBron in "showoff mode" as he wowed the United Center crowd with some exhibition-esque dunks off the break.
03/14: @ Toronto 98-111 [L] (31-37)
HIGHLIGHTS
Following the victory against Chicago, that's the Lakers' last freebie W as they go up against The North, one of the top two teams of the East. The Raptors have freed themselves from LeBronto earlier this season. Now, the Raptors' next task is to liberate the actual city of Toronto from remnants of LeBron during the last few years. Despite LeBron's 29 points, the Raptors' depth proved to be too much for the wounded Lakers. At least Alex Caruso had a great game off the bench with 16 points.
03/15: @ Detroit 97-111 [L] (31-38)
HIGHLIGHTS
LeBron this, LeBron that. I am ESPN at this point, but we get a break here on back-to-back nights. LeBron is held out to once again, "Load Management." But that doesn't stop LeBron from hogging the spotlight as he's shown laughing on the bench and wiping himself with a handkerchief. To be honest, I wasn't sure what he's laughing at. Maybe it's the sad realization that he'll be missing the playoffs for the first time since 2005. Trust me, I'd be laughing too if I saw Mike Muscala starting or having a lineup of Andre Ingram, Isaac Bonga, Alex Caruso, Mo Wagner, and Johnathan Williams on the floor this game. It's like I'm watching the South Bay Lakers. Not to poke further fun, Caruso had a good game again off the bench and Andre Ingram has won the hearts of Lakers fans with his inspiring two-game performance last season. But, the final result was expected as Detroit is literally fighting for their playoff lives in the East.
03/17: @ New York 123-124 [L] (31-39)
HIGHLIGHTS
Ah yes, the game that will forever etched Mario Hezonja's name into Knicks lore. The Knicks have their own rendition of "The Block" as Hezonja came up with a key block on LeBron James in the final seconds of the game. After that, I'm probably convinced that Father Time is catching up to 'Bron. LeBron put up 33 points this game, true. But, 0-6 from 3-point land! I've been saying this all this time, his field goal stats are inflated because he attacks and plays bully ball inside. You force him to make an outside shot, he'll tend to struggle. To be swept by the East's punching bag, there's no greater shame to summarize the Lakers' 2nd half meltdown of the season.
Oh, hi guys! You're still here checking on the status of the LakeShow. Well, let's just say that after a shitty start to March, arguably the most important month for playoff-aspiring teams, the Lakers' playoff hopes are dead. If you've been living under a rock these last few days, Lonzo Ball is shut down for the season. Brandon Ingram (best wishes to him), shut down as well. LeBron James? Held to a minutes restriction and will sit out on back-to-back nights. And why even bother? This roster is so shorthanded that it's filled with nothing more but players who barely get any playing and G-Leaguers.
In this week, LeBron returns out to the East one last time. The Lakers embark on their 5-game road trip to the East Coast that will culminate on Tuesday against the Bucks. No more dramatic intros, let's jump right into this week's Lakers' Weekly Roundup.
03/12: @ Chicago 123-107 [W] (31-36)
HIGHLIGHTS
Congratulations Lakers, you've finally won a game in March. But, not like it matters anyway. This is a Bulls team that's not even good and is still in rebuild mode. I'll give the Lakers credit. Chicago had an 18 point lead in the first quarter. Then the Lakers stormed right back en route to a victory. This is all powered by big games from LeBron, Kuzma, and surprisingly, KCP. LeBron lead the team with 36 points. This game was literally LeBron in "showoff mode" as he wowed the United Center crowd with some exhibition-esque dunks off the break.
03/14: @ Toronto 98-111 [L] (31-37)
HIGHLIGHTS
Following the victory against Chicago, that's the Lakers' last freebie W as they go up against The North, one of the top two teams of the East. The Raptors have freed themselves from LeBronto earlier this season. Now, the Raptors' next task is to liberate the actual city of Toronto from remnants of LeBron during the last few years. Despite LeBron's 29 points, the Raptors' depth proved to be too much for the wounded Lakers. At least Alex Caruso had a great game off the bench with 16 points.
03/15: @ Detroit 97-111 [L] (31-38)
HIGHLIGHTS
LeBron this, LeBron that. I am ESPN at this point, but we get a break here on back-to-back nights. LeBron is held out to once again, "Load Management." But that doesn't stop LeBron from hogging the spotlight as he's shown laughing on the bench and wiping himself with a handkerchief. To be honest, I wasn't sure what he's laughing at. Maybe it's the sad realization that he'll be missing the playoffs for the first time since 2005. Trust me, I'd be laughing too if I saw Mike Muscala starting or having a lineup of Andre Ingram, Isaac Bonga, Alex Caruso, Mo Wagner, and Johnathan Williams on the floor this game. It's like I'm watching the South Bay Lakers. Not to poke further fun, Caruso had a good game again off the bench and Andre Ingram has won the hearts of Lakers fans with his inspiring two-game performance last season. But, the final result was expected as Detroit is literally fighting for their playoff lives in the East.
03/17: @ New York 123-124 [L] (31-39)
HIGHLIGHTS
Ah yes, the game that will forever etched Mario Hezonja's name into Knicks lore. The Knicks have their own rendition of "The Block" as Hezonja came up with a key block on LeBron James in the final seconds of the game. After that, I'm probably convinced that Father Time is catching up to 'Bron. LeBron put up 33 points this game, true. But, 0-6 from 3-point land! I've been saying this all this time, his field goal stats are inflated because he attacks and plays bully ball inside. You force him to make an outside shot, he'll tend to struggle. To be swept by the East's punching bag, there's no greater shame to summarize the Lakers' 2nd half meltdown of the season.
Sunday, January 6, 2019
Lakers' Weekly Roundup (01/06): PLAYOFFS? Don't Talk About Playoffs!
*Some NSFW language*
The Lakers have failed so far in their New Year's Resolution of stringing together a winning streak without LeBron James in the lineup. After a convincing win against the Golden State Warriors on Christmas Day, their current free fall has made all that an afterthought. In the words of former NFL head coach Jim Mora:
The Lakers find themselves stuck in an endless struggle without LeBron James making up for their roster/personnel deficiencies. And the injury bug just won't stop derailing the Lakers from returning to perennial playoff glory. Let's see how the Lakers fared here in this week's Lakers' Weekly Roundup.
01/02: vs. Oklahoma City 107-100 [L] (21-17)
HIGHLIGHTS
Ah yes, the native son has returned for the New Year after pulling a 3-part swerve on us Laker fans and NBA fans around the world the previous offseason. Paul George had the opportunity to come home and fulfill a childhood dream of playing for the Lakers. He chickened out because he didn't want to get chewed out by his "best friend" Russell Westbrook. I'll admit I had the "red carpet" rolled out for Paul George's possible homecoming. TrueRaiderLaker Productions was gonna have the hyphiest hype video for PG13 to the Lakers with a two-part mixtape using songs by Ice Cube. This was going to get Lakers fans hyped because Paul George officially joined the Lakers with an all-too West Coast vibe, unlike where most videos tried to cocktease us by having a Paul George Lakers hype video uploaded prematurely before PG ever made a decision. All that time and effort putting a video together only for it to blow up in my face when the news broke out that PG was staying in OKC and I never recovered right on queue by the time LeBron James signed with the Lakers.
It was clear as day that Paul George couldn't handle the bright lights of LA as a hometown boy and he wanted to get paid big dollars. Typical of someone who shot OKC's daylights out of the playoffs last year against Utah. He then tried to spare us the sentimental bullshit that if the Lakers wanted him, they should've traded for him when they had the chance. Oh yeah, even if the Lakers traded for Paul George, he would've been unhappy that he was stuck with a team in the midst of rebuilding for life after Kobe and would've left the Lakers in the dust as a free agent. Understandably so, he'd be playing in the shadow of LeBron and play under intense scrutiny. Because when you're a star player and play alongside LeBron, a larger-than-life NBA superstar of his magnitude, definitely you'll shoulder all of the blame while he shoulders none of it. Instead of playing like an All-Star, you're like a pawn for LeBron. Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love as Exhibits A and B.
Enough of the Paul George melancholy, this recap is supposed to be short and sweet. Despite being shorthanded, this game just upped the ante for the Lakers and their young core: prove Paul George that he made a big mistake. They've answered the challenge by baiting PG to initiate contact on the defensive end. Attack him. Bully your way inside against him. It worked for the most part as he was in foul trouble early. Oh my goodness, PG13 might foul out of the game early. Poetic justice! Even better that Russell Westbrook is building a really big house with his bricks (excuse me while my Fantasy Basketball self cries in a corner). But, the fun wasn't meant to last as PG13 put the Thunder on his back. Once again, the Lakers were hampered by their inability to shoot free throws and forgetting how to box out for a rebound. But, at least they're hanging tight with a five-point lead into the 4th quarter. Then everything about the 4th quarter for the Lakers reared its ugly head again as every Lakers possession continued to stall and stall and stall and, well, you get the point. The Lakers couldn't buy a bucket until the game was well out of reach. This team absolutely failed us. Even worse, they're teetering on the 8th spot in the West. What this teaches us is that the "LeBron effect" is real. LeBron does mask major weaknesses for teams that are supposed to rot in mediocrity. Even more bad news, Kyle Kuzma didn't finish the game due to some back pain. That now makes three key players that the Lakers are missing badly (James, Rondo, Kuzma). During this game, we see a shot of LeBron in the back talking to Magic and Pelinka. Something tells me that drastic roster changes are brewing.
01/04: vs. New York 119-112 [L] (21-18)
HIGHLIGHTS
They lost to the Knicks. That's all there is to say. When a team loses to the team that is insanity in the flesh, obviously they've hit a layer that is lower than rock bottom. And by that, the Lakers' woes continue in this never ending skid since LeBron and Rondo went down. The injury bug continues to hit the Purple and Gold as Kyle Kuzma is ruled out this game. It's all in the hands of Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram to carry this team. This game was laughable to watch. The fact that the Lakers had to scratch and claw back into this game in the 3rd quarter against a previously 9-29 team is a testament that this team is trending in really tough waters. Then, like in the OKC game, the Lakers decided to crap out in the fourth quarter as the Knicks pulled out a gritty win. Common denominator? Brandon Ingram attempting to take over this game and chucking some missed shots. As I mentioned in the past, when it comes to evaluating young talent, you can't judge them until Year 3 of their career. As far as I know, time is ticking on B.I. He struggled in these situations last year of being big in the clutch. We fans gave him a pass on that. As he continues to struggle in these situations this year, patience is definitely being tested. It also doesn't help that Luke Walton deviated away from sets and plays that made B.I. so effective last year. Was it because of LeBron coming over? Or having a plethora of playmakers/floor generals this time around? We don't know. Ingram needs to get better in the clutch. Zo needs to score better. This team as a whole needs to get better at their free throws and rebounding. Luke has to be better at coaching with the roster and rotation he has now. The fact of the matter is that the Lakers continue to be exposed without LeBron having to mask their deficiencies. The West can change in an instant as the Lakers have fallen flat on their faces from the 4th seed to the 8th seed with this loss.
01/06: @ Minnesota 86-108 [L] (21-19)
HIGHLIGHTS
By the time I tuned into this game on League Pass, the Lakers were down 3-22 in the middle of the first quarter. I thought that was the score of an NFL Wild Card game for a second. But no, it's basketball and the Lakers only scored 3 points to start in the first quarter. I didn't pay too much attention to this game. This was beyond horrendous from top to bottom. As shorthanded as the Lakers were, they were in for an ass kicking against a much more talented Timberwolves team. The starting five was trash this game, Zo, Ingram, and Hart especially. Interesting enough, they implemented a lineup with Zubac and McGee in the lineup and boy, did things go South for the Lakers? It was garbage time at the start of the 4th quarter. With this 3rd loss, drastic changes have to be made. A lot of people are saying it's early in the season...with about four more months left. Teams have to start thinking about jockeying in position for a playoff spot, especially in the West where anything can happen. The Lakers need to have that mindset as they are no guarantees that this roster will be at full strength sooner or later. These next few months will go by fast with the trade deadline, All-Star weekend, and the stretch run of the 2018-19 NBA season in March-April. We do have a shakeup after this loss. Tom Thibodeau is relieved of his duties as Timberwolves Head Coach/President. Wait a second, what?
The Lakers have failed so far in their New Year's Resolution of stringing together a winning streak without LeBron James in the lineup. After a convincing win against the Golden State Warriors on Christmas Day, their current free fall has made all that an afterthought. In the words of former NFL head coach Jim Mora:
The Lakers find themselves stuck in an endless struggle without LeBron James making up for their roster/personnel deficiencies. And the injury bug just won't stop derailing the Lakers from returning to perennial playoff glory. Let's see how the Lakers fared here in this week's Lakers' Weekly Roundup.
01/02: vs. Oklahoma City 107-100 [L] (21-17)
HIGHLIGHTS
Ah yes, the native son has returned for the New Year after pulling a 3-part swerve on us Laker fans and NBA fans around the world the previous offseason. Paul George had the opportunity to come home and fulfill a childhood dream of playing for the Lakers. He chickened out because he didn't want to get chewed out by his "best friend" Russell Westbrook. I'll admit I had the "red carpet" rolled out for Paul George's possible homecoming. TrueRaiderLaker Productions was gonna have the hyphiest hype video for PG13 to the Lakers with a two-part mixtape using songs by Ice Cube. This was going to get Lakers fans hyped because Paul George officially joined the Lakers with an all-too West Coast vibe, unlike where most videos tried to cocktease us by having a Paul George Lakers hype video uploaded prematurely before PG ever made a decision. All that time and effort putting a video together only for it to blow up in my face when the news broke out that PG was staying in OKC and I never recovered right on queue by the time LeBron James signed with the Lakers.
It was clear as day that Paul George couldn't handle the bright lights of LA as a hometown boy and he wanted to get paid big dollars. Typical of someone who shot OKC's daylights out of the playoffs last year against Utah. He then tried to spare us the sentimental bullshit that if the Lakers wanted him, they should've traded for him when they had the chance. Oh yeah, even if the Lakers traded for Paul George, he would've been unhappy that he was stuck with a team in the midst of rebuilding for life after Kobe and would've left the Lakers in the dust as a free agent. Understandably so, he'd be playing in the shadow of LeBron and play under intense scrutiny. Because when you're a star player and play alongside LeBron, a larger-than-life NBA superstar of his magnitude, definitely you'll shoulder all of the blame while he shoulders none of it. Instead of playing like an All-Star, you're like a pawn for LeBron. Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love as Exhibits A and B.
Enough of the Paul George melancholy, this recap is supposed to be short and sweet. Despite being shorthanded, this game just upped the ante for the Lakers and their young core: prove Paul George that he made a big mistake. They've answered the challenge by baiting PG to initiate contact on the defensive end. Attack him. Bully your way inside against him. It worked for the most part as he was in foul trouble early. Oh my goodness, PG13 might foul out of the game early. Poetic justice! Even better that Russell Westbrook is building a really big house with his bricks (excuse me while my Fantasy Basketball self cries in a corner). But, the fun wasn't meant to last as PG13 put the Thunder on his back. Once again, the Lakers were hampered by their inability to shoot free throws and forgetting how to box out for a rebound. But, at least they're hanging tight with a five-point lead into the 4th quarter. Then everything about the 4th quarter for the Lakers reared its ugly head again as every Lakers possession continued to stall and stall and stall and, well, you get the point. The Lakers couldn't buy a bucket until the game was well out of reach. This team absolutely failed us. Even worse, they're teetering on the 8th spot in the West. What this teaches us is that the "LeBron effect" is real. LeBron does mask major weaknesses for teams that are supposed to rot in mediocrity. Even more bad news, Kyle Kuzma didn't finish the game due to some back pain. That now makes three key players that the Lakers are missing badly (James, Rondo, Kuzma). During this game, we see a shot of LeBron in the back talking to Magic and Pelinka. Something tells me that drastic roster changes are brewing.
01/04: vs. New York 119-112 [L] (21-18)
HIGHLIGHTS
They lost to the Knicks. That's all there is to say. When a team loses to the team that is insanity in the flesh, obviously they've hit a layer that is lower than rock bottom. And by that, the Lakers' woes continue in this never ending skid since LeBron and Rondo went down. The injury bug continues to hit the Purple and Gold as Kyle Kuzma is ruled out this game. It's all in the hands of Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram to carry this team. This game was laughable to watch. The fact that the Lakers had to scratch and claw back into this game in the 3rd quarter against a previously 9-29 team is a testament that this team is trending in really tough waters. Then, like in the OKC game, the Lakers decided to crap out in the fourth quarter as the Knicks pulled out a gritty win. Common denominator? Brandon Ingram attempting to take over this game and chucking some missed shots. As I mentioned in the past, when it comes to evaluating young talent, you can't judge them until Year 3 of their career. As far as I know, time is ticking on B.I. He struggled in these situations last year of being big in the clutch. We fans gave him a pass on that. As he continues to struggle in these situations this year, patience is definitely being tested. It also doesn't help that Luke Walton deviated away from sets and plays that made B.I. so effective last year. Was it because of LeBron coming over? Or having a plethora of playmakers/floor generals this time around? We don't know. Ingram needs to get better in the clutch. Zo needs to score better. This team as a whole needs to get better at their free throws and rebounding. Luke has to be better at coaching with the roster and rotation he has now. The fact of the matter is that the Lakers continue to be exposed without LeBron having to mask their deficiencies. The West can change in an instant as the Lakers have fallen flat on their faces from the 4th seed to the 8th seed with this loss.
01/06: @ Minnesota 86-108 [L] (21-19)
HIGHLIGHTS
By the time I tuned into this game on League Pass, the Lakers were down 3-22 in the middle of the first quarter. I thought that was the score of an NFL Wild Card game for a second. But no, it's basketball and the Lakers only scored 3 points to start in the first quarter. I didn't pay too much attention to this game. This was beyond horrendous from top to bottom. As shorthanded as the Lakers were, they were in for an ass kicking against a much more talented Timberwolves team. The starting five was trash this game, Zo, Ingram, and Hart especially. Interesting enough, they implemented a lineup with Zubac and McGee in the lineup and boy, did things go South for the Lakers? It was garbage time at the start of the 4th quarter. With this 3rd loss, drastic changes have to be made. A lot of people are saying it's early in the season...with about four more months left. Teams have to start thinking about jockeying in position for a playoff spot, especially in the West where anything can happen. The Lakers need to have that mindset as they are no guarantees that this roster will be at full strength sooner or later. These next few months will go by fast with the trade deadline, All-Star weekend, and the stretch run of the 2018-19 NBA season in March-April. We do have a shakeup after this loss. Tom Thibodeau is relieved of his duties as Timberwolves Head Coach/President. Wait a second, what?
Sunday, January 21, 2018
Clarkson, Randle Power Lakers Past Knicks
*Stats courtesy of NBA.com and Yahoo Sports*
Jordan Clarkson had another good game, sparking the 2nd unit with a near triple-double with 29 points, 6 rebounds, and 10 assists to go with 3 steals as the Lakers notch their 2nd win in a row, routing the Knicks 107-127. Kyle Kuzma added 15 points, Larry Nance Jr. had 13 points, and Alex Caruso chipped in a sneaky solid game with 9 points and 8 assists to round out the bench. Julius Randle lead the starting five with a double-double of 27 points and 12 rebounds. Brook Lopez racked up 14 points and connected on four 3-pointers and Brandon Ingram chipped in 10 points.
Final Score: vs. New York 107-127 [W]
Full article: http://www.nba.com/games/20180121/NYKLAL#/recap
Next Game: vs. Boston (01/23) <-- b="">*Open Thread and Full Recap Posts*
Highlights: *Courtesy of MLG Highlights*
Once again, the Lakers are carried by their "oh, how quickly they forget" 2014 draftees. Clarkson continues to play at a high level. In this game and the game against the Pacers on Friday night, we're seeing a more aggressive JC. He's finding that balance as a scorer and facilitator with his ability to slash into the basket. Either he's looking to attack or break the defense down to set up teammates perfectly to the basket as he did by getting Randle, Nance, and Ingram easy hoops. Speaking of Julius Randle, he looked really unstoppable in the paint. He got this party started by scoring the first four points for the Lakers off of dunks and as usual, played bully ball and the Knicks couldn't do anything about it. Brook Lopez got it going from deep. I'd love to see him get some points in the paint like he did in the past before he developed the three. But, it's an entirely different ball game when he scores in double digits. Alex Caruso continues to get more comfortable to the NBA level. I liked the guy in Summer League and he's putting together some sneaky good games for the 2nd unit. This game though was not a cake walk by all means. The Knicks kept themselves within striking distance for the most part of the game and at one point, had a six point lead in the 3rd quarter. But, the Lakers kept attacking and scoring. They ended the game on a 17-4 run. They also forced 17 turnovers from the Knicks on the defensive end to add on to this win. The Lakers will look to keep up the momentum against the Celtics on Tuesday. Boston is in a bit of a funk, dropping their last two games to Philly and they just lost to the Orlando Magic today, despite Kyrie Irving going off for 40 points. That's the thing heading into this game. The Celtics just got back Kyrie Irving and they're still a really good defensive team that can shoot the three-ball. It's going to be a nice test for the Lakers and this revamped play that we saw from Friday against Indiana and today against the Knicks. I'll see you guys on Tuesday night for that game.
Jordan Clarkson had another good game, sparking the 2nd unit with a near triple-double with 29 points, 6 rebounds, and 10 assists to go with 3 steals as the Lakers notch their 2nd win in a row, routing the Knicks 107-127. Kyle Kuzma added 15 points, Larry Nance Jr. had 13 points, and Alex Caruso chipped in a sneaky solid game with 9 points and 8 assists to round out the bench. Julius Randle lead the starting five with a double-double of 27 points and 12 rebounds. Brook Lopez racked up 14 points and connected on four 3-pointers and Brandon Ingram chipped in 10 points.
Final Score: vs. New York 107-127 [W]
Full article: http://www.nba.com/games/20180121/NYKLAL#/recap
Next Game: vs. Boston (01/23) <-- b="">*Open Thread and Full Recap Posts*
Highlights: *Courtesy of MLG Highlights*
Once again, the Lakers are carried by their "oh, how quickly they forget" 2014 draftees. Clarkson continues to play at a high level. In this game and the game against the Pacers on Friday night, we're seeing a more aggressive JC. He's finding that balance as a scorer and facilitator with his ability to slash into the basket. Either he's looking to attack or break the defense down to set up teammates perfectly to the basket as he did by getting Randle, Nance, and Ingram easy hoops. Speaking of Julius Randle, he looked really unstoppable in the paint. He got this party started by scoring the first four points for the Lakers off of dunks and as usual, played bully ball and the Knicks couldn't do anything about it. Brook Lopez got it going from deep. I'd love to see him get some points in the paint like he did in the past before he developed the three. But, it's an entirely different ball game when he scores in double digits. Alex Caruso continues to get more comfortable to the NBA level. I liked the guy in Summer League and he's putting together some sneaky good games for the 2nd unit. This game though was not a cake walk by all means. The Knicks kept themselves within striking distance for the most part of the game and at one point, had a six point lead in the 3rd quarter. But, the Lakers kept attacking and scoring. They ended the game on a 17-4 run. They also forced 17 turnovers from the Knicks on the defensive end to add on to this win. The Lakers will look to keep up the momentum against the Celtics on Tuesday. Boston is in a bit of a funk, dropping their last two games to Philly and they just lost to the Orlando Magic today, despite Kyrie Irving going off for 40 points. That's the thing heading into this game. The Celtics just got back Kyrie Irving and they're still a really good defensive team that can shoot the three-ball. It's going to be a nice test for the Lakers and this revamped play that we saw from Friday against Indiana and today against the Knicks. I'll see you guys on Tuesday night for that game.
Wednesday, December 13, 2017
Lakers Falter to Knicks in OT
*Stats courtesy of NBA.com and Yahoo Sports*
Lonzo Ball shined with an all-around game in his debut at Madison Square Garden, scoring 17 points to go with 8 rebounds, 6 assists, and 2 steals, but the Lakers could not contain Kristaps Porzingis and the Knicks, losing 109-113 in OT. KCP lead all starters in scoring with 24 points and Brook Lopez added 14 points. Kyle Kuzma made his MSG debut as well, racking up 19 points off the bench. Julius Randle added 13 points off the bench and Jordan Clarkson tallied a quiet 12 points off the bench.
Final Score: @ New York 109-113 [L]
Full article: http://www.nba.com/games/20171212/LALNYK#/recap
Next Game: @ Cleveland (12/14) <= *No Open Thread and Full Recap Posts*
Highlights: *Courtesy of MLG Highlights*
Young stars tend to rise to the occasion when they're playing at "The Basketball Mecca." If you play well at Madison Square Garden, you know you're a star in the making. Lonzo Ball's stats may not jump to the casual basketball fan, but this game should be a huge confidence booster for him. He put on quite a show in the 3rd quarter. Everyone in the Garden crowd were going "ooh" and "aah" when he and KCP executed the lob and the dunk to perfection. Ball had his shot in stride and was aggressive. I have to emphasize this again, Lonzo's more effective when he's looking to be the aggressor on the court whether it's finding ways to score or setting up teammates for high percentage looks. The 3rd quarter in particular was entertaining if you're a pure basketball fan as both the Lakers and the Knicks were trading baskets. The Lakers gave the Knicks a run for their money. Kuzma came up clutch in the final minute to go with a nice all-around game. Both teams were tied at 99, but in the end Porzingis stepped up and took over for the Knicks. Michael Beasley came alive, he's been known to get hot and score in bunches. Frank Ntilikina put the clamps on defensively against Lonzo. Those were some of the keys to the Knicks pulling this competitive game out. Brandon Ingram was ice cold in this game, starting 0-9. He did not even score his first field goal until the 4th quarter if I recall. This would've been a much different game in the Lakers' favor if Ingram didn't have the shooting slump he had last night. Instead, the Lakers are 2-1 on this road trip and they're going to have their hands full closing this road trip out on Thursday night against LeBron and a Cavs team who've won 15 of their last 16 games.
Lonzo Ball shined with an all-around game in his debut at Madison Square Garden, scoring 17 points to go with 8 rebounds, 6 assists, and 2 steals, but the Lakers could not contain Kristaps Porzingis and the Knicks, losing 109-113 in OT. KCP lead all starters in scoring with 24 points and Brook Lopez added 14 points. Kyle Kuzma made his MSG debut as well, racking up 19 points off the bench. Julius Randle added 13 points off the bench and Jordan Clarkson tallied a quiet 12 points off the bench.
Final Score: @ New York 109-113 [L]
Full article: http://www.nba.com/games/20171212/LALNYK#/recap
Next Game: @ Cleveland (12/14) <= *No Open Thread and Full Recap Posts*
Highlights: *Courtesy of MLG Highlights*
Young stars tend to rise to the occasion when they're playing at "The Basketball Mecca." If you play well at Madison Square Garden, you know you're a star in the making. Lonzo Ball's stats may not jump to the casual basketball fan, but this game should be a huge confidence booster for him. He put on quite a show in the 3rd quarter. Everyone in the Garden crowd were going "ooh" and "aah" when he and KCP executed the lob and the dunk to perfection. Ball had his shot in stride and was aggressive. I have to emphasize this again, Lonzo's more effective when he's looking to be the aggressor on the court whether it's finding ways to score or setting up teammates for high percentage looks. The 3rd quarter in particular was entertaining if you're a pure basketball fan as both the Lakers and the Knicks were trading baskets. The Lakers gave the Knicks a run for their money. Kuzma came up clutch in the final minute to go with a nice all-around game. Both teams were tied at 99, but in the end Porzingis stepped up and took over for the Knicks. Michael Beasley came alive, he's been known to get hot and score in bunches. Frank Ntilikina put the clamps on defensively against Lonzo. Those were some of the keys to the Knicks pulling this competitive game out. Brandon Ingram was ice cold in this game, starting 0-9. He did not even score his first field goal until the 4th quarter if I recall. This would've been a much different game in the Lakers' favor if Ingram didn't have the shooting slump he had last night. Instead, the Lakers are 2-1 on this road trip and they're going to have their hands full closing this road trip out on Thursday night against LeBron and a Cavs team who've won 15 of their last 16 games.
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Lakers Blow Out Knicks on 51 Point 3rd Quarter Performance
Ok guys, yesterday's game was supposed to have Q-by-Q, Halftime Post and Full Recap. However, I had to attend to a personal emergency, it was a rough day for me yesterday and I wasn't able to see the game because I spent most of the game time waiting in the ER waiting room with family. Right now, everything is fine, just a tough day, but I'm ready to give you guys a quick recap about last night's game.
So the Lakers blew out the Knicks at Staples Center, 1st quarter looked like the Knicks had it in the bag, then the Lakers stormed back in the 2nd quarter and they didn't let up all game, scoring a franchise record 51 points in the 3rd quarter. No Kobe, no Nash, no Gasol, this Laker team was on fire last night. Xavier Henry was the Lakers' top performer this game with 22 points, 8-11 shooting on the bench to help the Lakers lay the smackdown on the Knicks and their playoff hopes 96-127, spoiling their playoff hopes big time. Obviously Phil Jackson was in attendance, I told you guys in my Spurs-Lakers recap, PJ was going to be there and I assumed there were loud chants of "We Want Phil" before or during the game. Back to the recap, Nick Young added 20 points on 6-10 shooting off the bench, Kent Bazemore added 18 points, the bench was huge last night. Starters in double-figures, Jodie Meeks chipped in 14 points and Chris Kaman, back on the active roster, finished the game with a decent near double-double with 13 points and 9 rebounds and our other bigs, Jordan Hill and Robert Sacre were perfect 4-4 from the field with 9 points from Hill and 8 points from Sacre.
Overall, the Knicks were just absolute crap this game and the Lakers took advantage of it, huge disparity from 3 point land with the Lakers shooting 64% compared to the Knicks' 26%. Us Laker fans, we're aware we're a lottery team, but for Knicks fans, when you get blown out like this and almost lose to a mediocre 76ers team, you guys are thinking "we don't deserve a playoff spot." There's absolute disparity in the East, the only team I can think of potentially knocking off either Miami or Indiana is Chicago because coach Thibs makes his players play hard. Other than that, the playoff picture in the East is a joke. Anyway, the Lakers start a mini northwest trip to Milwaukee and Minnesota, go back home against a Phoenix team scrapping for a playoff spot. They are on National TV again against the reeling Trail Blazers on Tuesday so I'll see you guys for that game.
Final Score: vs. New York 96-127 [W]
Full recap: http://www.nba.com/games/20140325/NYKLAL/gameinfo.html
Highlights:
Next Game: @ Milwaukee (03/27)
So the Lakers blew out the Knicks at Staples Center, 1st quarter looked like the Knicks had it in the bag, then the Lakers stormed back in the 2nd quarter and they didn't let up all game, scoring a franchise record 51 points in the 3rd quarter. No Kobe, no Nash, no Gasol, this Laker team was on fire last night. Xavier Henry was the Lakers' top performer this game with 22 points, 8-11 shooting on the bench to help the Lakers lay the smackdown on the Knicks and their playoff hopes 96-127, spoiling their playoff hopes big time. Obviously Phil Jackson was in attendance, I told you guys in my Spurs-Lakers recap, PJ was going to be there and I assumed there were loud chants of "We Want Phil" before or during the game. Back to the recap, Nick Young added 20 points on 6-10 shooting off the bench, Kent Bazemore added 18 points, the bench was huge last night. Starters in double-figures, Jodie Meeks chipped in 14 points and Chris Kaman, back on the active roster, finished the game with a decent near double-double with 13 points and 9 rebounds and our other bigs, Jordan Hill and Robert Sacre were perfect 4-4 from the field with 9 points from Hill and 8 points from Sacre.
Overall, the Knicks were just absolute crap this game and the Lakers took advantage of it, huge disparity from 3 point land with the Lakers shooting 64% compared to the Knicks' 26%. Us Laker fans, we're aware we're a lottery team, but for Knicks fans, when you get blown out like this and almost lose to a mediocre 76ers team, you guys are thinking "we don't deserve a playoff spot." There's absolute disparity in the East, the only team I can think of potentially knocking off either Miami or Indiana is Chicago because coach Thibs makes his players play hard. Other than that, the playoff picture in the East is a joke. Anyway, the Lakers start a mini northwest trip to Milwaukee and Minnesota, go back home against a Phoenix team scrapping for a playoff spot. They are on National TV again against the reeling Trail Blazers on Tuesday so I'll see you guys for that game.
Final Score: vs. New York 96-127 [W]
Full recap: http://www.nba.com/games/20140325/NYKLAL/gameinfo.html
Highlights:
Next Game: @ Milwaukee (03/27)
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