Finally, something to cheer about for the hoop fans in LA LA Land, with the Lakers opening their winning account with back-to-back victories, after an overtime thriller against the Pelicans. Coach Darvin Ham seems to have figured out a way to get all the pieces of the puzzle together.
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The win against the Pelicans had a lot to do with the purple and gold’s bench, especially Austin Reaves and Matt Ryan, not to forget Russell Westbrook, who ran the supporting cast impeccably. Another positive feedback for the Lakers was the potential opportunity to have Lonnie Walker IV as the 3rd scoring option alongside the superstar duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
Gearing up to host the Jazz on Friday night, the Lakers have an opportunity to extend their winning streak to 3-games. Nonetheless, this won’t be a mere walk in the park for Coach Ham and his crew, given the talent on the Jazz roster. Finnish sniper Lauri Markannen is on the verge of a breakout season and the Lakers’ defense will be tested.
The Lakers could see a change in the lineup with their doubts over James and Davis’ availability tonight.
Is Anthony Davis playing tonight?
Not the ideal update Lakers Nation would want, but AD is questionable for the game against the Jazz tonight with low back tightness. Coach Ham might have to make a significant shakeup in the starting lineup, with James probable for tonight’s contest.
UPDATE: As per a late update both LeBron James and Anthony Davis have been upgraded to available and will feature in tonight’s showdown.
Regarded as a top 5 talent when healthy, Davis has been struggling with his performances off-late. While the numbers may suggest a different story, the former champion looks rusty in his shooting.
Though averaging 23.2 PPG, 11.5 RPG, 2.2 SPG, and 2.3 BPG on 52.3% shooting from the field, Davis continues to struggle from a distance, including 25% from mid-range. Most of the eight-time All-Star’s points come from the restricted area.
While the Lakers may have finally tasted victory, fans long for The Brow’s bubble version if they wish to make the playoffs.
