LeBron James summarises LA Lakers’ Eastern Conference road trip - “We had injuries and illnesses, and it kind of threw our rhythm off”
LA Lakers superstar LeBron James was essential in leading the team to a win against the Detroit Pistons today. Given that it was the last of their six-game road trip, James shared the importance of returning home on a high.
The LA Lakers haven't been the most successful team this season. After a poor start, the team has enjoyed sporadic success with short bursts of victories.
Unfortunately, the Purple and Gold haven't been able to sustain this form for long. This inconsistency has seen them rank in the bottom rung of the West.
The Lakers were really put to the test over the course of this six-game road trip. After enjoying some early success, the team fell upon hard times with injuries and fatigue.
Dropping to 2-3 prior to their last game, the Lakers really needed a win against the Detroit Pistons to ensure solid momentum before heading home.
Given the gravity of the situation, LeBron James stepped up for the LA Lakers. Leading the team with an impressive offensive performance, James helped Lakeshow steal a win in Detroit.
Spectrum SportsNet's Mike Trudell interviewed LeBron James after the win. Following a solid performance against the Pistons, James was asked about certain aspects of the game.
While the superstar put on a show on the offensive front, the Lakers were saved by an Austin Reaves triple late in the fourth quarter. James broke down the play during the interview and the faith that he showed in Reaves holds promise for the future.
When asked by Trudell how important the win was, LeBron responded by saying:
"It's huge. It's like you said, we started off the trip so well then we had injuries and illnesses, and it kind of threw our rhythm off. But we had everybody back in the lineup tonight and we were able to finish the trip off .500 and going back home."
"We started off the trip so well then we had injuries and illnesses, and it kind of threw our rhythm off... but we were able to finish the trip off .500." @KingJames with @LakersReporter on tonight's win. https://t.co/HdQhn2R4qe
The joy of beating the Pistons, however, was dulled by the unfortunate passing of Boston Celtics legend Paul Silas. LeBron also shared his sentiments regarding the passing of one of his coaches during the interview.
As sad as the passing of an NBA legend is, the Lakers have some positive takeaways from the road trip.
LeBron James' masterful performance against the Detroit Pistons
LeBron James was a key player for the LA Lakers against the Detroit Pistons on Sunday night. Notching 35 points on the night along with five rebounds and five assists, the superstar led the team to a much-needed win.
James recently caught flak for his performances on the floor. Although the numbers tend to support his case, LeBron hasn't necessarily been adding much value to the team.
Coming off a rather poor outing against the Philadelphia 76ers, James made a point of establishing himself early on. After a solid second quarter, the Lakers superstar coasted for the rest of the game.
While LeBron James' performance was impressive, Lakers big Anthony Davis was also equally valuable. Davis continued his hot streak as he recorded 34 points, 15 rebounds and seven assists.
The Lakers appear to have gathered some momentum from this win. Improving to 11-15 ahead of their return to LA, the Purple and Gold will prepare to face the best in the East on Tuesday.