With each passing game, it is becoming more evident that the Los Angeles Lakers’ efforts to try to create a superteam this season haven’t been successful. As of now, the team is barely hanging on to a play-in tournament spot and have low hopes of even making it to the postseason.
While most Lakers fans were already pretty frustrated with their team’s performances, they were even more furious after the Lakers’ most recent defeat against the Houston Rockets.
Despite the Rockets having the worst record in the West, they somehow managed to take the game to OT. Later, the Rockets sealed the deal with ease. A somewhat positive sign for the team was the performance of Russell Westbrook.
Brodie, who has been struggling to be consistent throughout the season, had a decent game. He was on the floor for 40 minutes and managed to put up 30 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists. Russ managed to put up these numbers while making 11 out of 21 shots too.
On the other hand, LeBron James recorded a 23 point triple-double. But his 5 turnovers played a vital role in the team’s defeat. The King apologized and promised to do better in the team’s upcoming game.
Apart from LeBron, Westbrook was also a focal point of the media in the postgame conference. He was asked about how he and the Lakers usually react to losing games. Russ said:
“I watch the game, watch and see how I can be better, and then figure out how we can be better as a team. So I’ll look at it and see.”
(starts at 3:26)
"They're going to compete. They're playing the Lakers… Regardless of any team's record in this league you can be beat on any night." @russwest44 on the #Lakers losing to the Rockets. pic.twitter.com/jDzqJIf6W7
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) March 10, 2022
It is a good strategy to rewatch the game and find out the potential flaws in the game. Unfortunately, the Lakers are out of time to use such strategies.
At this point in the season, they need to win as many games as possible and at least hope to book a concrete place in the play-in tournament. Otherwise, we might see Russell Westbrook and co.’s season finish even before the playoffs begin.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UtNrgBMMn40
