In the NBA regular season, the Lakers defeated the Blazers 99-94, ending a three-game losing streak. This victory is still very important for the Lakers, after beating the Blazers, the gap between the two sides has also been widened, to 4 wins.
James is still absent from the game, and Vogel still excludes Westbrook, Bradley, Munch, Johnson and Davis. The Lakers performed very well in the first quarter, establishing a 12-point lead in the single quarter, but they failed to hold on to their advantage, and in the second quarter, the opponent narrowed the point difference, and only led by 1 point at the end of the half. In the second half, the Lakers' state was still sluggish, and the field was also passive, trailing by 3 points after the third quarter; the Lakers finally found their form in the last quarter, regained the lead, and withstood the opponent's counterattack, with Munch's two free throws, the Lakers locked in the victory.
This game Davis played the key to the team's win, and finally found his peak form, playing 36 minutes, 10 of 18 shooting, 10 of 14 free throws, and getting 30 points, 15 rebounds and 3 blocks. Westbrook's side is not good, scoring 9 points on 3-of-12 shooting and can deliver 13 assists and 10 rebounds. Veteran Anthony on the bench had 5-of-6 three-pointers and 24 points and eight rebounds; another veteran, Howard, was given playing time again, and he showed his worth in the only time he had.
Howard played just 11 minutes off the bench, 4-of-6, and had 10 points and seven rebounds, including four offensive rebounds. In fact, this game the Lakers are still at a disadvantage, rebounding 53-55 behind, offensive rebounds 12-18 behind, fortunately this time Vogel remembered Howard. In the second quarter, Howard came up and played 4 minutes, contributing 5 points and 5 rebounds, showing good form.
After the game, Howard's words were also quite poignant, "I want to bring energy to the team, I may not get much playing time in some games, so as long as I play, I will play concisely and efficiently, cover for my teammates, create empty opportunities, I have always been optimistic." 」 ”
Today's Howard has long recognized the reality, no longer pursues data and playing time as before, but is more waiting for opportunities, as long as he can play, he will give everything he wants. For a veteran, in order to be able to continue to stand in the league, he chose to compromise and must be given enough respect.