Last Sunday, James scored 56 points in a single game to help the Lakers beat the Warriors. But this time against the Spurs, James missed the game due to a sore left knee, and the Purple and Gold Army lost another game, and they once again became the laughing stock on social media.
This time, the subject of the joke was Westbrook. Russell Westbrook single-handedly led the team for 34 minutes, shooting 5-of-14 from the field, 0-of-2 from three-point range, 7-of-13 from the free throw line, 17 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists, as well as 5 turnovers and 5 fouls, plus-minus +5. Westbrook shot just 35 percent from the field, which became the focus of fan discussion.
Even with James, the Lakers are not a very good team. Without James and Anthony Davis, they simply couldn't have won over the trained Spurs. After losing this game, the Lakers' record came to 28-36, ranking 9th in the West. They lost five wins to the 8th-place Clippers in the East, one win ahead of the No. 10 Pelicans.
If the Lakers still want to succeed in the playoffs, they will face an uphill battle. Assuming they are lucky enough to pass the playoffs, the Lakers will also face fierce playoff competition and no home advantage.
In fact, the Lakers' future schedule is very difficult. NBA commentator Perkins said: "The Lakers will not have any breakthroughs, look at their remaining schedule in March." There's only one team they can beat, and that's the Houston Rockets. ”
At the same time, Perkins also called on the Lakers to continue to take a break from James in preparation for next season's championship. "James is not completely healthy, so why consume him? Why put all your work into this 37-year-old veteran? He's hope for the Lakers' revival next season. ”
As of now, neither the Lakers management nor James himself seems to have any intention of quitting this season. According to Vogel, James is expected to make a comeback on Thursday for a game against the Rockets.