The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Orlando Magic in Los Angeles, 106-94. The score did not reflect the level of dominance the Lakers displayed. LeBron James was the catalyst for the strong performance and tremendously lead his Lakers. This game against Orlando was no different. James delivered a virtuoso performance. He scored 30 points on 12-for-20 shooting from the field. James knocked down 3-for-7 from the three-point line. He also grabbed 11 rebounds and dished out 10 assists. James was asked postgame what his secret to success is.
“Sleep,” James said. “Sleep, and inspiration from my son and his team. … I slept last night from 12 to 8. I got up, ate breakfast, and then I went back to sleep from 8:30 to 12:30. That’s pretty good, right?
James scored 14 of his 30 points in the third quarter. He put constant pressure on the Magic’s defense and the Lakers were able to open up the lead. Lakers’ Head Coach Frank Vogel spoke postgame on how impressed he has been with James’ play and leadership.
“He’s exemplifying finding joy through hustle,” Lakers coach Frank Vogel said. “The effort he’s playing with is inspiring our whole group.”
Coach Jamahl Mosely of the Orlando Magic spoke postgame about James’ strong play as well.
“Tonight, LeBron James happened,” Orlando coach Jahmal Mosley said. “He came out and hit two 3s quickly. We missed a couple of chippies, and it fueled their break. … They just turned up the defensive pressure. I know we did get some good looks. Shots just didn’t happen to fall. Those shots go in, it slows down the run, but those misses led to easy transition baskets.”
More Lakers Contributions
- Russell Westbrook scored 19 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and dished out five assists.
- Talen Horton-Tucker scored 19 points and dished out three assists.
- Carmelo Anthony scored 13 points and grabbed three rebounds off the bench.
The Lakers travel to Dallas on Wednesday, 12/15 to face the Dallas Mavericks. Tip-off is at 7:30 pm Eastern/6:30 pm Central.
