LeBron James Sits Out as Lakers Mount Incredible Comeback
In their matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks on the 27th, the Lakers found themselves trailing by as many as 19 points in the early stages of the fourth quarter. However, fueled by a remarkable 27-13 run, they managed to force the game into overtime. After two intense overtime periods, Austin Reaves hit a go-ahead three-pointer with 38.1 seconds remaining, while “The Greek Freak” missed two crucial free throws, allowing the Purple and Gold to secure a thrilling 128-124 victory and claim their fourth consecutive win. With this win, the Lakers now sit just two games behind the 8th seed in the Western Conference.
39-Year-Old King James Absent as Lakers Battle Bucks
With the 39-year-old superstar LeBron James sidelined due to a left ankle injury, the Lakers struggled to find their footing in Milwaukee. They started slowly, falling behind 17-4 early in the game and scoring just 16 points in the first quarter. However, they refused to back down and mounted a stunning comeback effort throughout the game.
Davis, Russell, and Reaves Lead Lakers’ Remarkable Comeback
Led by Anthony Davis, D’Angelo Russell, and Austin Reaves, the Lakers staged an improbable comeback in the fourth quarter, erasing a 19-point deficit and outscoring the Bucks 53-30. Davis and Reaves hit back-to-back three-pointers in the final 2:16 of regulation to tie the game at 101, forcing overtime.
Lakers Show Resilience in Double OT
Despite being unable to clinch victory in the first overtime period, the Lakers once again demonstrated resilience. Trailing by two points with just 13.1 seconds remaining in the first overtime, Russell drew a foul on Khris Middleton and made both free throws to extend the game to a second overtime.
Reaves’ Late Three-Pointer Seals the Win
In the second overtime period, Austin Reaves nailed a crucial three-pointer with 38.1 seconds left to give the Lakers the lead. Additionally, a missed pair of free throws by Giannis Antetokounmpo, with LeBron James counting down from the sidelines, sealed the Lakers’ incredible comeback victory.
Lakers Close in on Playoff Berth
With a record of 40 wins and 32 losses after this game, the Lakers are now just two games behind the 8th seed in the Western Conference, currently held by the Phoenix Suns. The Lakers have a chance to further improve their position as the Suns face a challenging schedule ahead.
Davis, Russell, and Reaves Shine for Lakers
In this thrilling contest, three Lakers players scored over 20 points. Anthony Davis led the way with 34 points, 23 rebounds, and 2 assists, along with 4 blocks and 2 steals. D’Angelo Russell contributed 29 points, 12 assists, and 7 rebounds, along with 2 steals and 1 block, while Austin Reaves recorded 29 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists for a triple-double performance.
Antetokounmpo’s Heroics Not Enough for Bucks
Despite Giannis Antetokounmpo’s stellar performance of 29 points, 21 rebounds, and 11 assists, along with 3 blocks and 2 steals, it was not sufficient to secure victory for the Bucks. (ME88)
