NBA
Lakers Edge Mavericks 114-113 At Home In Halloween Thriller
The Los Angeles Lakers narrowly defeated the Dallas Mavericks last night 114-113. For the most part, the Lakers were in control of the game, but they nearly blew a 12 point lead in the final three minutes. However, LeBron James made the game winning free throw with just under three seconds to go. Obviously, this game was definitely a Halloween scare for Lakers’ fans. The Lakers were up 38-21 after the first quarter.
James led the way with 29 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists. Besides James, Lonzo Ball also had a good game. He shot 3-3 from downtown. He also added 12 points and 7 assists. Ball is now shooting 40% from three. If his shots continue to fall, him and James are going to be a deadly duo.
Obviously, defense as usual was a struggle for the Lakers. They’ve yet to hold an opponent to under 110 points this season. That does not formulate winning basketball. In addition to that, the Mavericks shot 44.8% from three, which is a problem. The Lakers perimeter defense also needs to improve if they want to be taken seriously as a threat in the Western Conference.
Player of the Game: LeBron James
No doubt, James was the best Laker last night. James finished with a 29-5-6 stat line. He made great passes in transition all night to Ball and Kyle Kuzma. The offense also was ran through James and that worked out tremendously.
Looking Ahead:
The Lakers will be traveling to Portland on Saturday to take on the Trail Blazers. This is a rematch of the season opener. The Lakers should play as if they are out for revenge. On Sunday, Kawhi Leonard and the Toronto Raptors will be coming to town.
Also, expect Los Angeles to give Leonard a warm welcome. It’s always exciting seeing a big star who has been rumored to become a Laker play in the Staples Center. November will definitely bring a much easier schedule for the Lakers. Now it’s time to bring consistent winning basketball back to Los Angeles.
Photo Credit
Raheel Memon via Flickr
