Lakers Win First Game Without James, Beat Sacramento Kings 121-114

by
Former Writers
December 31, 2018

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After a heartbreaking buzzer beater loss this week in Sacramento, the Lakers exacted revenge on the Sacramento Kings. The final score was 121-114. Last night’s win was also the first time the Lakers have won without LeBron James this season. The Lakers ended the game on an 18-4 run and dominated down the stretch. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope led all Lakers with 26 points. Josh Hart also scored a season-high 22 points and grabbed 7 rebounds.

The young backcourt of De’Aaron Fox and Buddy Hield combined for 47 points. Hield is having himself an All-Star caliber year, averaging 19.7 points per game and shooting 42.3% from three. Fox may also find himself on the All-Star roster. He’s averaging 18.3 points and 7.7 assists per game. Obviously, the Kings have definitely exceeded expectations this season. They also may find themselves in contention for the 8th seed in the Western Conference.

Player of the Game: Josh Hart

Josh Hart had himself a ball game last night. As a result of Hart’s great game, he had 22 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists. He also was superb down the stretch, making a clutch layup over Fox with less than a minute left. After trailing by 11 in the second half, Hart was the spark that started the Lakers comeback. With James out for an unknown period of time, the Lakers must adapt the next man up mentality and Hart has definitely done that.

✨ @joshhart pours in 22pts & a ? against the Kings. pic.twitter.com/4G4VbsgzIm

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) December 31, 2018

Looking Ahead:

The Lakers next game is January 2nd at home against the Oklahoma City Thunder. This will be the first matchup this season between the two teams. Obviously, James will more than likely not play because the Lakers are going to be cautious with him. Rushing him back from a groin injury would be an unmitigated disaster.

On January 4th, the Lakers will be welcoming the New York Knicks to the Staples Center. Obviously, it should be a game the Lakers should considering the fact the Knicks are in full tank mode. The Lakers are 1-2 without James so far and may find themselves out of the playoff race by the time he gets back.