Russell Westbrook and the Los Angeles Lakers had to play last night without LeBron James. And as expected, they fell to a strong Philadelphia 76ers thanks to Joel Embiid’s showcase. But the Lakers surprised fans, as they put up the kind of fight no one has seen from this during the course of the season. Despite the loss, there is optimism that the Lakers can continue improving.
Russell Westbrook spoke to the media after the Lakers’ loss to the 76ers. Westbrook was asked about the Lakers’ next game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Given their proximity in the standings and the Lakers’ need to secure a play-in spot, Westbrook believes that the game is a must-win for the Lakers, and will have a playoff atmosphere.
Russell Westbrook on Sunday matchup with Pelicans: "It's going to be a playoff-type of atmosphere for us. It's definitely a must-win I believe for our group."
— Ryan Ward (@RyanWardLA) March 24, 2022
“It’s going to be a playoff-type of atmosphere for us. It’s definitely a must-win I believe for our group.”
Westbrook is right and seems to be of the right mindset heading into the game against the Pelicans. Given how the Lakers season has gone, and their desperation to secure a play-in spot, the Lakers will have to play one of their best games of the season and give it their all to defeat a very resolute New Orleans Pelicans squad.
The Lakers will presumably have LeBron James back against the Pelicans after he sat out the game against the 76ers to get some rest and try to recover the pain in his knee. With LeBron playing at the elite level that he is, the Lakers will have to compliment his performance if they want to get the all-important win on the night.
Fans were not happy to see the Lakers lose against the Pelicans, but some have pointed out that the Lakers showed fight, something they very rarely have this season. The Lakers need to show a similar level of fighting spirit against the Pelicans to try and salvage their season.
