Orphans of Anthony Davis, affected in the calf, the Lakers start with a bang. Like Kyle Kuzma (14 points at 4/5 at 3 points), holder for the occasion, they are hot behind the arc and get off to an excellent start (18-6). Wolves are trying to respond but they are completely overwhelmed defensively by the opposing waves (28-14). It is not the entry into play of Montrezl Harrell, nor the percussions of Dennis Schröder, which allow them to breathe more. After twelve minutes, the “Purple & Gold” lead well (40-23).
Among the only Minnesota players inspired tonight, Ricky Rubio is working hard to wake his own up. But the Spaniard can do nothing in front of the depth of the bench of the reigning champions (50-35). The latter then pass an 11-1 to their visitors and the gap continues to climb. Completely uninhibited, the Angelenos unroll their basketball without ever forcing and return to the locker room filled with certainties (67-45). In the end, the only black point is this ankle of LeBron James who still turned somewhat just before half-time.
Marc Gasol finally stands out
Magnified by the presence of Marc Gasol, the Lakers collective is still a pleasure to see after the break. In conductor mode, the Spanish pivot treats his teammates at the head of the racket, with passes of rare accuracy (82-51). Everyone is involved on the Californian side tonight, while LeBron James reassures the state of his ankle. The absence of Karl-Anthony Towns, injured wrist, is sorely felt for the players of Minneapolis. At the end of the third quarter, the gap worsened further (103-67).
As you can see, this last act will look like “garbage time”. The usual replacements for the two teams will therefore take the opportunity to see the floor and take care of their personal statistics. If the meeting loses a little more in quality and interest, Frank Vogel’s men will quietly manage their lead until the final whistle (127-91).
While in control, LeBron James compiles 18 points, 9 rebounds and 5 assists in 26 minutes. As for Kyle Kuzma, he finished top scorer of the game with 20 points. Perfect in his role, Marc Gasol adds 12 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists (100% on shots). A successful performance from the Lakers, therefore, who will have been able to run for their “back-to-back” against the Blazers.
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