The Lakers absolutely destroyed the Minnesota Timberwolves, 127-91, on Sunday night to improve to 2-1, handling their business without superstar Anthony Davis.
Davis was out with a calf contusion but should be back for the next game. The Lakers started off fast and the game was never in doubt from the first quarter on.
Kyle Kuzma and LeBron James led the way
Kuzma started in place of Davis and Kuzma did not disappoint. He made the most of his opportunity to be in the starting lineup. He came out blazing and scored all of his 20 points in the first half. Kuzma reflected on his big game and seems to have things in perspective.
“It’s not really about scoring.” Kuzma said, “I just try to impact the game and take shots when I have them, and that’s made me a better player. I just try to seize the moment. In a season like this, playing back-to-backs, the coach and the organization being conservative with LeBron and AD allows me to have those nights when I can show what I work on everyday.”
Overall, Kuzma is establishing himself as a possible legitimate third scoring option.
LeBron James chipped in with 18 points, and grabbed nine rebounds and dished out five assists.
Marc Gasol is fitting in seamlessly
If there were ever any doubts, Marc Gasol is fitting in with the Lakers just fine. He scored 12 points, grabbed seven rebounds and dropped off eight assists on Sunday.
Gasol is figuring things out quickly and is fitting in with just fine. His playmaking ability allows the Lakers to space the floor. It also allows the Lakers’ offense to flow more smoothly, giving the Lakers another playmaker alongside James, Davis and Dennis Schroder.
The Lakers turn around to take on the Trail Blazers on Monday. Tipoff is 10 p.m. EST/7 p.m. EST on NBA TV.
