Lakers survive Jazz with 105-104 win

The Lakers narrowly escaped the Jazz with a 105-104 win on Sunday. LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Christian Koloko combined for the stop on Collin Sexton as time expired.

Let’s break down three takeaways from the Lakers victory.

Anthony Davis in MVP form

Anthony Davis continued to play at a high level, finishing with 33 points, 11 rebounds, two steals, and a block. The 31-year-old big man shot 13-25 from the field and 2-4 from three.

Davis’s efficient shooting and dominance on both ends of the floor have been pivotal for LA. Davis remains in the MVP race, and the Lakers will need him to continue playing at a high level.

BREAKING: Gabe Vincent has scored 10+ points in a game for the FIRST time as a Laker‼️ pic.twitter.com/ipScasbWA1

— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) December 2, 2024

Lakers role players stepping up

The rotation relied on role players stepping up, with the Lakers missing D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, Cam Reddish, and Jaxson Hayes.

Gabe Vincent had his best game as a Laker, starting at point guard and finishing with 10 points, three rebounds, two assists, and a steal. He shot 4-5 from the floor and 2-3 from behind the arc.

Max Christie was a key contributor off the bench with 12 points, five rebounds, and two assists. Christie got the free throw line, shooting 8-10.

Jalen Hood-Schifino also had a positive impact in 13 minutes. He finished with four points, one rebound, one assist, and a block. He was a +12 in his minutes.

With a quick turnaround with a game against the Timberwolves on Monday, the Lakers may need their role players to step up again.

LeBron James’ elite performance

LeBron James struggled with his shot, shooting 0-9 from three, but otherwise, he played at an elite level.

James finished with 27 points, five rebounds, 14 assists, and two blocks. He hit a key layup down the stretch and helped get the stop on Sexton to win the game.

While it wasn’t James’ best showing with his shot not falling, he contributed in other ways to lead the Lakers to a win.

The Purple and Gold have a 12-8 record on the season and will look to pick up another win Monday in Minnesota against the 9-10 Timberwolves.