Lakers Secure Home Winning Streak Despite Anthony Davis’ Injury
Despite Anthony Davis leaving the game early with an eye injury, the Lakers picked up a 123-103 win over the Toronto Raptors at Crypto.com Arena.
LeBron James Steps Up in Davis’ Absence
With Davis absent for the final 17-plus minutes, LeBron James dialed up his intensity in the latter stages of the third quarter and early in the fourth, helping the Lakers turn a five-point deficit late in the third (77-72) into a double-digit (103-89) early in the fourth.
James’ Triple-Double Leads the Way
James finished with 19 points, 16 assists, and 10 rebounds for his second consecutive triple-double and third of the season. His final assist to Austin Reaves (27 points, six assists) for a 3-pointer put the Lakers up 120-100 with 1:39 left in the game.
Lakers’ Bench Provides Key Contributions
D’Angelo Russell (15 points) and Jaxson Hayes (12 points, six rebounds) combined for 27 of the Lakers’ 40 bench points.
Davis Ruled Out with Left Eye Injury
Davis (22 points, four rebounds, three assists, and two blocked shots in 26 minutes) was ruled out early in the fourth because of a left eye injury he suffered while blocking Raptors center Jakob Poeltl midway through the third. Poeltl hit Davis in the eye while Davis was blocking his dunk.
Lakers’ Defense Clamps Down in Fourth Quarter
The Lakers, who’ve generally struggled without Davis on the court, raised their defensive intensity and focus in the fourth. After giving up 12 offensive rebounds and 15 fastbreak points in the first three quarters, the Lakers didn’t allow any of either in the final 12 minutes.
Raptors’ Turnovers Lead to Lakers’ Points
The Lakers also took advantage of the Raptors’ giveaways, turning 18 Toronto turnovers into 20 points.
Conclusion
The Lakers have won their first five games at Crypto.com Arena, and their defense played a key role in securing the win without Davis. The team will look to continue their strong play at home against the Memphis Grizzlies on Wednesday.
FAQs
Q: What was the final score of the game?
A: The Lakers won 123-103.
Q: How many points did LeBron James score?
A: James finished with 19 points.
Q: How many rebounds did Jaxson Hayes have?
A: Hayes had six rebounds.
Q: What was the nature of Anthony Davis’ injury?
A: Davis suffered a left eye injury after being hit by Raptors center Jakob Poeltl.
Q: Will Davis play in the next game?
A: The status of Davis’ injury is unclear, but he did not return to the game after being ruled out due to the injury.
