LeBron James and Anthony Davis gave it their all to keep the Los Angeles Lakers competitive against the Denver Nuggets. However, despite their efforts, Nikola Jokic‘s team proved to be too formidable. Amidst criticism about the Lakers‘ strategies and calls, Magic Johnson pointed out that there were certain individuals who didn’t contribute as much as needed.
“This Lakers loss isn’t LeBron or AD‘s fault,” Magic Johnson wrote on X
Just like I said the other day…the guards had to play well – and they didn’t. Dlo was 1/9 from the 3-point line, Reaves was quiet most of the game, and they only combined for 26 points.
Coach Mike Malone and the Nuggets defense effectively neutralized the Lakers’ guards, preventing them from making significant offensive contributions. Starting guards D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves managed only 26 combined points, despite playing 41 and 37 minutes respectively. Gabe Vincent and Spencer Dinwiddie also struggled to find their rhythm, contributing to the Lakers‘ eventual downfall.
Magic Johnson particularly highlighted Russell‘s critical mistakes during the game, pointing out a crucial possession that swung momentum in the Nuggets’ favor.
“The 18 Nuggets points off offensive rebounds hurt the Lakers, but the momentum completely changed in the 3rd quarter when Dlo made that transition turnover which led to a Nuggets basket,” Johnson noted.
“He then missed a layup that would’ve put the Lakers up 5, and instead, the Nuggets tied the game and they never recovered.
James and Davis shined
The duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis dominated the frontcourt, as Davis scored 32 points, making 12 out of 23 field goal attempts and sinking eight of his nine free throws.
He also grabbed an impressive 14 rebounds, securing a monster double-double. Meanwhile, James contributed 27 points, along with eight assists and six rebounds, showcasing his versatility and leadership on the court.