Lakers dominate Rockets; continue surge up the standings
The Lakers came away with a crucial win, defeating the Rockets 134-109. This win improves them to 40-38 on the season, putting LA back into 7th place in the Western Conference and only a 0.5-game behind the Clippers for the 6th seed.
It all started with Anthony Davis, who had 27 points at the half and finished with 40 points and 9 rebounds.
LeBron James had a triple-double, which tied him with Jason Kidd for fourth all-time in triple-doubles with 107.
James had 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists. Reaves also contributed 18 points and 8 assists.
The Lakers' bench production was on full display in the victory. Rui Hachimura shined, finishing with 20 points, 12 rebounds, and three blocks.
Anthony Davis in his last 3 games:
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) April 3, 2023
40 PTS, 9 REB, 2 BLK
38 PTS, 17 REB, 2 BLK
38 PTS, 9 REB, 2 BLK
DOMINANT 💯 pic.twitter.com/Rh7DGaVMVU
Darvin Ham’s group executed well on both ends of the floor. Offensively, LA continued to feed Davis, who had his third straight game with at least 38 points. Ham staggered his stars minutes, with one of James or Davis on the court a majority of the time.
James made a huge impact by elevating his teammates as he found them open for easy looks. Hachimura was the recipient of quite a few of James’ passes.
RUI HACHIMURA JUST SENT THIS DUNK INTO THE SHADOW REALM 🫨 pic.twitter.com/FpXOpK18FY
— Lakers Lead (@LakersLead) April 2, 2023
D’Angelo Russell missed the second half of the game due to left foot soreness. However, Ham clarified in his postgame interview that Russell could have continued to play, but they “didn’t want to risk it.”
LA is now on a three-game win streak and in a great position to move up in the West. Finishing with a top-six seed would give them a legitimate playoff spot and allow them to avoid the play-in tournament.
Getting the 6th seed would likely match them up with the Sacramento Kings, who have had a great season. However, Sacramento doesn’t have many players with playoff experience on their roster.
This would be an ideal matchup for the Lakers in the first round. It was a huge victory for Los Angeles, but they still have work to do.
With four games remaining, the Lakers will look to keep winning and climb up the standings. Their next matchup comes on Tuesday when they take on the Utah Jazz on the road.