D’Angelo Russell’s impressive 34-point performance, complemented by LeBron James’ 28 points, propelled the Los Angeles Lakers to a commanding 134-110 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers during Sunday’s NBA action, bringing their season record to an even 22-22.
Austin Reaves contributed 15 points, while Anthony Davis notched a double-double with 14 points and 14 rebounds. This win marked a strong recovery for the Lakers following an 18-point defeat to Brooklyn earlier.
Russell and James scored the first 19 points for the Lakers in the fourth quarter. Russell showcased his skills with a standout play, faking a behind-the-back pass to James on a fastbreak before finishing with a layup, a move that left James impressed.
“That was dope,” James said. “The only way to get fastbreak points is to defend, defend without fouling, and we did that.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: LeBron James, D’Angelo Russell, Los Angeles Lakers, Portland Trail Blazers Updates
The fastbreak points, a season-high for the Lakers, were a testament to their defensive efforts. The duo’s efforts helped the Lakers build a 23-point lead, with James contributing a dunk, a 3-pointer, and free throws. Back in the starting lineup, Russell was determined to support James and Davis assertively.
“He’s been aggressive looking for his shot, and we continue to try to find him, especially in transition,” James said.
With the game comfortably in the Lakers’ control, James and the other starters rested for the final six minutes. Malcolm Brogdon led Portland with 23 points and nine assists, while Anfernee Simons and Jerami Grant added 19 and 17 points, respectively.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: LeBron James, D’Angelo Russell, Los Angeles Lakers, Portland Trail Blazers Updates
Despite their lower ranking in the West, the Trail Blazers had their two-game winning streak snapped. Lakers coach Darvin Ham acknowledged Portland’s potential despite their record.
“The Trail Blazers have a certain record, but at the end of the day, they’ve still got a lot of firepower over there,” Ham said.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: LeBron James, D’Angelo Russell, Los Angeles Lakers, Portland Trail Blazers Updates
Russell, who scored 13 points in the third quarter and tied his season-high with six 3-pointers, was just one point shy of his season-best score and also had eight assists. Ham praised Russell’s complete performance and focus on contributing to the team.
“He’s really locked in on his game and focused on ways he can help the team,” Ham said. “Tonight was one of the most complete games I’ve seen him play since he’s been back in a Laker uniform.”
Looking ahead, the Trail Blazers will face the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday night, while the Lakers have a matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers on the same night.
