The Los Angeles Lakers just lost their 11th game of the season at home to the Sacramento Kings, and LeBron James holds himself accountable for the loss. For the first time in a long time, the Lakers were not down by double figures at the end of the third quarter. They held a five-point lead at the end of the period.
Unfortunately, a fourth-quarter breakdown and failure to make stops resulted in a triple overtime game that ended in favor of the Kings 141-137.
Speaking post-game (from 2:41), LeBron could not contain his disappointment, but he was more upset with himself. He failed to follow his 39-point show-stopping display against the Indiana Pacers with another incredible performance in front of the home fans.
“I feel like I played a horrible game individually. I hold myself to a higher standard than that. And I got to be better for this team, especially when we going through what we going through right now.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MbEJW1PV8tQ
It was a pretty close game, and while the Lakers had every opportunity to run away with the lead, we credit the Kings for their valiance. They were without two crucial players – Harrison Barnes and Richaun Holmes – but still managed to steal the win against the star-studded Lakers team.
For the Lakers, this was their first loss in five overtime games played so far this season. They currently sit 7th with a 10-11 record in the Western Conference standings.
LeBron was right to be mad at himself, as he performed poorly. While 30 points might look good on the box score, note that he played for 50 minutes. He also had one of the worst shooting nights of his career.
Two dagger three-pointers in overtime against the Pacers is undoubtedly a confidence booster, but LeBron successfully made two shots from downtown on 13 attempts. And with the Lakers failing to assert any dominance on the glass, those turned to wasted possessions.
LBJ ended the game with 30 points, 7 rebounds, 11 assists, and a steal while shooting 40% from the field. The Lakers host the Pistons next, and it will be a fun watch, considering the history in that matchup.
