Lakers Fall to Magic in Thriller, Missed Free Throws Prove Costly
LOS ANGELES — Playing against one of the league’s biggest and best defensive teams, Lakers coach JJ Redick emphasized the importance of physicality.
And he acknowledged that aspect of the game as something he’ll “probably” reinforce with his team, at least every now and then.
Game Summary
In a back-and-forth contest, the Lakers met physicality with physicality, but crucial missed free throws down the stretch came back to haunt them, resulting in a 119-118 loss to the Orlando Magic on Franz Wagner’s step-back 3-pointer with 2.5 seconds left.
Key Stats
- LeBron James led the Lakers with 31 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists, scoring 14 points in the fourth quarter.
- Anthony Davis added 39 points, nine rebounds, three blocked shots, and two assists.
- Austin Reaves contributed nine points and was 3 for 7 from 3-point range.
Post-Game Reaction
Davis acknowledged that the loss was frustrating, especially given his own missed free throws. "Any loss is frustrating. More frustrating for me because I’m the one who missed the free throws."
James echoed Davis’ sentiments, stating, "Every loss is frustrating, every loss is frustrating. There’s certain losses that you could point to a lack of, I don’t want to call it a lack of effort, but like a lack of will and competitiveness and physicality to start a game and then you’re having to fight that."
Conclusion
The Lakers’ missed free throws in the fourth quarter, combined with a strong performance from the Magic’s Franz Wagner, ultimately decided the outcome of the game. The loss snaps the Lakers’ six-game winning streak and drops their record to 10-4.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the final score?
A: 119-118 in favor of the Orlando Magic.
Q: Who led the Lakers in scoring?
A: LeBron James with 31 points.
Q: What was the key to the Magic’s victory?
A: Franz Wagner’s 37 points, including 15 in the fourth quarter, and the Lakers’ missed free throws down the stretch.
