Lakers Finally Get First Win, Roll Past Suns 131-113

by
Former Writers
October 25, 2018

Highlight Store via Flickr

The Los Angeles Lakers finally got their first win of the season, beating the Phoenix Suns 131-113 last night in Phoenix. The Lakers won convincingly, which makes the win impressive. Lance Stephenson had a great game. LeBron James flirted with a triple double last night. Josh Hart made his first start of the season and scored 15.

As for the Suns, DeAndre Ayton continued his strong early rookie campaign with 22 points and 11 rebounds. Devin Booker had 23 points, but left the game early with a hamstring injury. The Suns also have one of the most promising rosters in the NBA. Last night, it just wasn’t their night and the Lakers were too much for them to handle.

The main positive takeaway from this game was the play of the bench. Stephenson led the Lakers in scoring with 23 points. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope was moved to the bench and had 14 points.

Obviously, if the Lakers want to succeed, everybody has to buy in to what Magic Johnson is selling. For example, Caldwell-Pope, who has been a starter his entire career, has to accept coming off the bench for the good of the team. If he can mentally prepare himself with this new role alongside Rajon Rondo and Stephenson, the Lakers can have one of the most deadliest benches in the league.

Player of the Game: LeBron James

I was torn between giving this award to James or Stephenson. One thing to consider is James didn’t play the 4th quarter. Also, James doesn’t play against second units like Stephenson does. James finished with 19 points 7 rebounds and 10 assists. The offense was ran through James. The young guns are starting to develop chemistry with James and it is definitely showing.

Looking Ahead

The Lakers play their first back to back tonight and will take on the Denver Nuggets at home. The Nuggets are a legit playoff contender in the West. Afterwards, the Lakers will then play the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday night on the road.

This schedule has been brutal for the Lakers thus far. It’s these tough games that will also shape the character of this team. The first win is in the books. Now it’s time to string together consistent success.