The Los Angeles Lakers are facing a rough patch, dropping their third consecutive game in a nail-biter against the Phoenix Suns, 113-110. For the second straight outing, they squandered a double-digit lead in the third quarter, raising questions about their resourcefulness and urgency on the court.
With a 34-24 record, they sit in sixth place in the Western Conference. Considering the injuries to key players, their position might be expected, but Lakers fans are understandably frustrated, feeling this season's squad hasn't quite hit the mark.
Coach JJ Redick addressed the heightened scrutiny following the loss, noting that when the Lakers lose, it resonates more because of the franchise's stature. “Our losses are louder than other teams because we’re the Lakers and because of the way we lose,” Redick explained.
Despite the setback, he praised his team's resilience in facing adversity, acknowledging that mistakes are part of the game. He pointed out, “Basketball is a game of mistakes and we made mistakes, just like I make mistakes.”
Even with stars Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks sidelined for the Suns, the Lakers couldn’t capitalize. Their 3-point defense struggled, allowing Phoenix to hit 22-of-50 from beyond the arc. While the Lakers managed a respectable 11-of-29 from three-point land, the disparity created a daunting 33-point gap that proved too much to overcome.
The Lakers will need to tighten up defensively and find that spark to reignite their season. As they push forward, staying focused and addressing these issues will be crucial if they hope to climb the standings and satisfy their passionate fanbase.