The Los Angeles Lakers’ difficulties deepened following a 127-113 loss at home to the Memphis Grizzlies, marking their fourth consecutive defeat and ninth in the last 11 games. They are now 17-19 on the season, ranking outside of the seeding for the NBA play-in tournament in the Western Conference.
Lakers legend and Spectrum SportsNet NBA analyst James Worthy didn’t mince words about the team’s performance, calling it embarrassing. He pointed out the Lakers’ lack of effort and energy, highlighting their stagnant play and predictable approach. He also expressed his dismay at the team’s inability to compete effectively, especially after returning from a road trip with back-to-back home losses.
“The Lakers had no answer for the effort, the energy,” Worth said. “They got stagnant, the ball didn’t move. And you could just feel it and see it on their faces. They just didn’t have what it took to compete with them.
“I don’t know what’s going with this team right now. To lose two at home back-to-back after coming back off the road trip,” Worthy explained. “I don’t know what to say about it. It’s embarrassing. And they’re not playing with any structure.
“And when they get in trouble, they go to a complete iso with no movement,” Worthy explained further. “It’s easy to guard that. And Memphis just took it to them. And they hit the three tonight. It’s just a tough loss, man. Just tough.”
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LeBron James, in his postgame interview, was blunt about the team’s current state, saying, “We suck right now.” He also downplayed the significance of the Lakers’ in-season tournament win, emphasizing the need to focus on more substantial goals like the championship.
Despite a promising start to the season with a 14-9 record and winning the NBA’s inaugural In-Season Tournament, the Lakers have been hampered by a lackluster offensive season, ranking 24th in offensive rating. Their three-point shooting woes have been particularly glaring, with the team ranking third-last in threes made per game.
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James, in his 20th NBA season, has been a standout with averages of 25.0 points, 7.4 assists, and 7.3 rebounds per game. Anthony Davis has also been a key contributor, but their efforts haven’t translated into success for the team, which seems to be regressing as the season approaches its midpoint.
The Lakers, now at 17-19, are looking to reverse their fortunes in their next game against the Los Angeles Clippers.
