Lakers, LeBron James Fortunate Kevin Durant Didn’t Play in Win Over Suns
The Los Angeles Lakers (42-39) defeated the Phoenix Suns (45-36) Friday night at Crypto.com Arena to keep hope alive of clinching a playoff spot without having to go through the play-in tournament.
As reported on Marca, Lakers superstar LeBron James had a terrible shooting night, scoring just 16 points on 6-for-19 from the field, making up for his shortcomings with a half-dozen rebounds and assists.
A huge scoring run in the third quarter set up a manageable victory in the final frame. LA was in control down the last stretch of the fourth thanks to some clutch shots from several players.
James, 38, received much-needed help from D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, Malik Beasley, Anthony Davis and Rui Hachimura, who each put up double-digits in scoring.
Despite Phoenix resting its starters, LA head coach Darvin Ham still had trouble stopping the second unit, and nearly fumbled a gift of a victory.
LeBron James vs. Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, Chris Paul and Deandre Ayton were all ruled out of the game, making a Lakers victory that much more probable. Suns are undefeated in the eight games KD has played.
For one reason or another, James and Durant have not faced off since 2018, and fans were eager to finally see them battle once again.
They could meet down the line this postseason should everything work out for both sides. James and Durant matching up in the playoffs would be epic for all NBA fans.
For that to happen, Lakers need some things to go their way, but the most important part right now is to seal a spot in the playoffs.
Lakers Need Warriors to Lose
The Purple & Gold have already clinched the No. 8 seed, at worst, and there is a scenario where they could even go as high as the fifth spot.
Most likely, however, Lakers will finish with No. 7 seed thanks to the tiebreaker over the New Orleans Pelicans.
The No. 6 seed is possible if the Golden State Warriors lose their season finale to the Portland Trail Blazers (33-47) on the road.
Lakers host the Utah Jazz (36-44) Sunday to close out the regular season and finally find out what the near future holds for them.
