Last night, the Denver Nuggets beat the Los Angeles Lakers 122-109 in a game where LeBron James was absent. This was the Lakers’ first loss of the new year, as they had previously gone on a five-game winning streak. Despite facing a tough opponent without their star player, the Lakers put up a fight. Russell Westbrook led the team by scoring 25 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. He injured himself in the process and gave the Lakers fan nostalgia.
Anyhow the Lakers were at a disadvantage from the start due to poor shooting and missed opportunities. They also went through a dry spell during the game, during which they could not score and gave up 10 points to the Nuggets. Despite these struggles, the Lakers did not give up and kept the game close throughout. The loss for the Lakers comes as the trade deadline is approaching, and the front office may make moves to improve the team.
Russell Westbrook’s Sacrifice For The Team, Reflects A Laker Legend
Despite the Lakers losing 122-109 to the Nuggets in a game where LeBron James was out due to an ankle injury. Russell Westbrook stepped up and put in a strong effort to lead the team’s offense. After the game, Westbrook revealed that during the game, he suffered a dislocated right pinky finger. Russ said that he had to pop it back into place, similar to what Kobe Bryant did in 2016. Fortunately, the X-rays of his finger do not suggest any greater problems. Although the stunt Westbrook pulled was risky, it shows his commitment to the team.
In February 2016, Bryant suffered a dislocated finger during a game between the Lakers and the San Antonio Spurs. He was chasing a loose ball in the closing moments of the game. Black Mamba was clearly in pain, but he didn’t let it stop him. Despite the injured finger, he walked back to the bench to get his finger popped back by his trainer Gary Vitti. Although there is no comparison between Kobe and Russell Westbrook, these moments show how much players want to win. Bryant helped the Lakers to reach various finals and brought the title home on five occasions. Meanwhile, Russ hangs with a loose thread as the fans want him out for a better player on the team.
The Lakers Missed LeBron James Energy At The Game
The 38-year-old Lakers forward missed the game because of ankle soreness. He was listed as probable on Monday, but James was marked out before the game. However, Darvin Ham seemed calm and relaxed, with LeBron missing an important game. “You know with LeBron, it’s just a daily thing, in terms of how he’s feeling,” said the head coach.
Everyone is aware that LeBron puts his health before anything. James is cautious and monitors his body closely, and the Lakers would not mind him resting to avoid long-term injury. The head coach knows the importance of the four-time champ playing more games rather than giving all in one game.