The Lakers played three straight games that have gone to overtime and although they won them all, the extra minutes are still very taxing. With a total of four overtime periods played, that is an extra 20 mins on everyone’s legs. Fatigue came into play as the Lakers opened the game against the visiting Memphis Grizzlies. Ja Morant and the Grizz started the game on a 22-2 run. The Lakers looked tired and the Grizzlies looked like a young hungry pack. Then LeBron James happened.
Luckily, the Lakers decided to wake up in the second half. After being down 13 to end the first half, LeBron James took his dislike of Dillon Brooks and gave us quite the memorable performance. King James simply took over and was able to tie the game at 80 after they forced some turnovers and baskets in transition. The Lakers never looked back and were able to maintain a decent lead behind the hustle play of Kyle Kuzma.
For the first time in four games, the Lakers only needed 48 mins to win the game 115-105.
Player of the game – LeBron James
Anthony Davis led all scored with 35 points and grabbed 8 boards. Kuzma had a double-double with 20 points and 10 rebounds, however, King James was the player of the game. LeBron almost nabbed a triple-double with 28 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 dimes.
While he didn’t have the best stat line, it was his third-quarter play that brought the Lakers back to eventually win this game by double digits. The Lakers were lethargic in the first half and it wasn’t until LeBron decided to impose his will that they were able to get back into this game. The momentum changed and the Lakers never let it go.
Here’s his dunk in the fourth quarter that you will see on the SportsCenter via the Lakers official Twitter page.
YEAR 18.@KingJames x #NBAAllStar pic.twitter.com/tZyusFnGxF
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) February 13, 2021
Stat of the game – 41 Points in the 3rd Quarter
This game was won by the Lakers in the third quarter and that is due to their 41-point outburst. With LeBron leading the way, the Lakers were able to completely take over. Up until the third period, the Grizzlies were simply the team that wanted it more, but after a 19-2 run, the Lakers were able to coast to their seventh straight victory.
A 3 to close the 3rd from @KingJames, plus an and-1 through Memphis traffic and a jumper, has the Lakers up 87-82 heading into the 4th Q.
It was a 41-23 LAL edge in that 3rd Q, and LeBron is up to 24 points with 7 boards and 7 assists.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) February 13, 2021
Quote of the night – Frank Vogel praises LeBron after his heroic performance: “You’re watching greatness.”
Frank Vogel on @KingJames: "You’re watching greatness."
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) February 13, 2021
According to Mike Trudell of Spectrum SportsNet, Vogel’s praise was simple, but straight to the point. We are spoiled watching this man play at this level at the age of 36. Regardless if he wins the MVP or not, as Laker fans we are treated to some special performances. We cannot take LeBron for granted, eventually, Father Time will come knocking. For now, let us enjoy the greatness.
What’s next?
The Lakers now head to the Rockies to take on Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets. The Lakers will be looking for their eighth victory in a row while the Nuggets look to win their third straight home game.
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