DENVER — The aftermath of the Los Angeles Lakers37-point loss at the Denver NuggetsSaturday’s second-biggest Loss was LeBron JamesHis 19-year career was a great success story for another franchise.
“We Lakers fans can be content with being outplayed, but we deserve more that a lackluster effort or a lackluster sense of urgency.” Magic Johnson tweetedHis 5.1 million followers. “Owner Jeanie Buss, you deserve better.”
James had a team record 25 points and nine rebounds, but shot 9-for 23 (including 2-for-8 at 3), and left the arena without speaking with reporters. Then, he left. Russell Westbrookto be questioned about Johnson’s tweet.
Westbrook stated that he does not have a reaction to the shooting slump. He scored 19 points with 7-for-15 shooting. “Everyone is entitled in this world to their opinion. No matter what it may be. It’s up to you whether you want to run with it, or you can put it in one ear.
“Magic is entitled to his opinions. He isn’t always there. He’s not there every day. He doesn’t know what’s going internally with us, and he’s not trying to figure out. However, I don’t have a response. I think everyone is entitled to their opinion.
Dwight HowardThe former MVP of Denver, he started at the center, but was no match for his reigning counterpart, Nikola JokicWestbrook shared his thoughts about Johnson (17 points and 13 assists, 12 rebound), Howard addressed a small group, saying that it was quite telling that the former Lakers great was giving his critique online and not visiting the team’s practice area.
Johnson’s delivery method was criticized by the pair, but they were able to accept his message.
Westbrook too criticized L.A. for its lack of effort, as it was outrebounded by 51 to 41 and allowed the Nuggets shot 23-for-40 (3-point range).
He said, “We just have to play hard.” Sometimes the scheme and how you play don’t really matter. Sometimes, you have to just be hard. It’s simple: teams play harder than we, plain and simple.”
Howard supported Westbrook.
“It is not too much that I can really say about. Howard stated, “We’ve been saying that all year.” “So, I shouldn’t have a need to keep saying it. He’s correct, but you know that.
James’s career was marred by his biggest loss, when L.A. was defeated by 42 points by The Lakers in his first season. Indiana PacersJust before the deadline for trades, Indiana fans were chanting “LeBron’s Going to Trade You” at the young core of the Lakers.
James’ 13-year-old streak of reaching the postseason with the Lakers ended that season at 37-45.
Saturday’s loss to the Lakers was their third consecutive loss, bringing them below.500 at 21-22. According to data compiled by ESPN Stats & Information, this is the first time since James’ rookie year that his team was below .500 at the 43-game mark of their season.
Howard said, “You can’t stop believing you’re gonna win. Let’s just say, ‘Ah, f—it, lets give up.’” “We are aware that we have placed ourselves in a very difficult predicament, but it is possible to win with a few games, some positive energy, and some positivity.