UPDATE: The Los Angeles Lakers faced a devastating 132-119 loss to the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Cup quarterfinals on December 13, 2023. This defeat not only jeopardizes their chances for a $530,000 cash prize per player but also raises serious questions about their defensive capabilities as they look ahead to the rest of the season.
The Lakers, who started the season strong at 17-7, struggled significantly in this elimination game. The Spurs exposed L.A.’s weak perimeter defense, which ranks among the bottom five in the league for opponents’ 3-point shooting percentage at 38.2%. San Antonio capitalized, hitting 17-of-38 from beyond the arc, resulting in a staggering 44.7% shooting percentage from long range.
As the game progressed, the Spurs maintained a commanding lead, stretching it to as much as 24 points. When they weren’t scoring from deep, their guards frequently penetrated the paint, forcing the Lakers to foul. San Antonio finished with 29-for-36 from the free-throw line, while the Lakers managed only 17-for-23.
“They were just going downhill, driving and kick,” said Luka Doncic, who scored 35 points but couldn’t mask L.A.’s defensive struggles. “Each one of us got to be better.”
The loss comes just two days after Rich Paul, agent for Lakers star LeBron James, voiced doubts about the team’s postseason potential on his new podcast. Paul stated, “I don’t think they have enough to really contend,” raising alarms among fans and analysts alike.
However, James himself dismissed concerns about postseason implications stemming from this early December game. “I can’t think about what we can do in the playoffs in December,” he stated after contributing 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 8 assists. “What I can say is that the habits we build throughout the regular season are what is important.”
Lakers head coach JJ Redick acknowledged the emotional nature of sports but reiterated the need for a balanced perspective amid the chaos of fan expectations. “It’s hard not to have overreactions,” he noted.
The team’s defensive issues were echoed by players in their postgame comments. Redick emphasized the need to improve containment, stating, “I think being able to contain the basketball is probably the most difficult thing for our team right now.” James highlighted the importance of cohesive defensive communication, stressing that “five guys being on a string” is crucial for improvement.
Meanwhile, the Spurs celebrated their 12th consecutive victory even without star rookie Victor Wembanyama, who remains sidelined with a calf strain. This victory underscores the depth of San Antonio’s roster and their ability to dominate even in the face of adversity.
The Lakers now face urgent questions as they prepare for their upcoming games. If they do not address their defensive woes, Rich Paul’s comments could prove to be a prophetic warning. Austin Reaves expressed the team’s spirit, saying, “The spirit’s still high in here. We know we can do it,” while emphasizing the need for a unified defensive effort.
As the NBA season progresses, all eyes will be on the Lakers to see if they can rebound from this setback and solidify their status as contenders. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the team seeks to improve their defense and regain their championship form.
