The Los Angeles Lakers had no troubles against the Utah Jazz. Their offense ran seamlessly and defensively they have curbed the visitors to shooting just 45% from the floor. Unsurprisingly, it all ran through Anthony Davis, the “hub” for the Los Angeles Lakers. But the MVP candidate suffered a nasty low blow that might have put his night to an end.
Anthony Davis and the Lakers bring it close
The Los Angeles Lakers continue their streak of staying undefeated in the NBA Cup. In their 9th game, the Purple and Gold held a lead as much as 25. It came as a result of a furious flurry from rookie Dalton Knecht. Going for 18 straight at one point, he tied the rookie record for threes, hitting 9 tonight.
LeBron James and the entire Lakers bench went wild, dancing and watching in awe of their rookie. However, that turned into a sense of ease in the fourth quarter that nearly gave the Jazz a window.
They outscored the Lakers, 43-27 in the final 12 minutes, even cutting the lead to single digits in the last few minutes of regulation. Poor free throw shooting from both Anthony Davis and James may have frightened Laker Nation for some time. However, they held their nerves toward the end, winning 118-124. Three Lakers scored 20+ points. Knecht went for a career-high 37 points while Davis and James combined to score 52 points. JJ Redick has every reason to be pleased with his team but that fourth quarter. In terms of maintaining intensity, it might be a discussion after the game that a basketball “sicko” such as Redick would want to clean up.
The Lakers have now won six games in a row. And they are yet to welcome some ky players to the roster that can genuinely elevate the capabilities of the roster. Do you think Redick has spun a web that can put LA back to its’ title ways? Let us know your early thoughts in the comments below.
