After 40 games into the current NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers find themselves with a record identical to that of the previous year, standing at 19-21. The recent game against the Utah Jazz, resulting in a 132-127 loss for the Lakers, highlighted their struggles and the urgent need for improvement.
2023 Lakers after 40 games: 19-21
2024 Lakers after 40 games: 19-21
😳 (h/t @Haarper_) pic.twitter.com/ie3hYvjv9E
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) January 14, 2024
In comparison to the same point last season, the Lakers were on a five-game winning streak, showcasing a more positive trajectory. However, the current season has been marred by inconsistency, with the team losing 12 of their last 17 games and currently holding the 11th position in the competitive Western Conference.
A notable difference this season is the Lakers’ roster strength and relatively injury-free status. LeBron James has played 36 out of the 40 games, and Anthony Davis has participated in 38 games, a significant improvement from the injury concerns of the previous season.
Last season, the Lakers underwent a major roster overhaul just before the trade deadline, resulting in a positive shift in their performance. They finished 7th in the Western Conference and secured a play-in position. This time around, however, the team finds itself in the 11th spot, prompting rumors of potential major moves to address their current challenges.
The recent loss to the Utah Jazz, despite Anthony Davis recording a triple-double, underscores the Lakers’ struggle to find consistency in both offense and defense. With LeBron James sidelined due to a left ankle injury, the Lakers need to address their weaknesses promptly to secure a better position in the competitive Western Conference.
As the trade season approaches, the Lakers face crucial decisions to improve their performance and aim for a stronger second half of the season.
Anthony Davis Takes Blame For Disastarous Showing Against Jazz
After a disappointing 132-125 loss to the Utah Jazz, Anthony Davis shouldered the blame for the Lakers’ struggles, acknowledging that he didn’t perform up to par. With LeBron James sidelined due to an ankle injury, the Lakers looked to Davis to lead the offensive charge, but he faced challenges, shooting just 5-21 from the field.
Despite recording a triple-double with 15 points, 15 rebounds, and 11 assists, Davis emphasized his responsibility for the defeat, stating:
“It was on me. I didn’t do my job tonight.”
The Lakers needed Davis to dominate on the offensive end, especially with LeBron’s absence, but his subpar shooting performance hindered their chances.
Facing double teams throughout the game, Davis acknowledged the increased defensive attention in LeBron’s absence. However, he expressed the need to deliver better offensive output, recognizing the pivotal role he plays in securing victories when LeBron is not on the court.
The Lakers struggled on multiple fronts against the Jazz, losing the rebounding battle 52-40 and allowing 13 offensive rebounds, resulting in 20 second-chance points for Utah. D’Angelo Russell’s standout performance with 39 points, 8 assists, and 3 rebounds stood out as a positive amid the team’s challenges.
Davis had previously highlighted self-inflicted wounds as a key factor in the Lakers’ struggles. While the team managed to bounce back with two consecutive wins, the recent loss to the Jazz saw a return to their earlier issues, with turnovers, poor execution, and defensive lapses contributing to the defeat.
The Lakers are grappling with both offensive and defensive deficiencies, with their recent defensive struggles evident in opponents consistently surpassing the 125-point mark in four of the last five games. To reverse their fortunes, the Lakers must address both ends of the court, focusing on improved defensive performances and more efficient offensive contributions from key players like Anthony Davis.
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