The Lakers Fall to the Pistons on Lebron’s Birthday
The Lakers' 128-106 defeat to the Detroit Pistons served as a disappointing end to the year, especially on LeBron James' 41st birthday. Despite a high profile roster, they couldn't rally in the fourth quarter as they did against the Jazz, faltering because of poor ball handling and a late game collapse. Luka Dončić led with 30 points and 11 assists, but his night wasn't without issues. He briefly left the game in the third quarter to tend to his left shoulder. Although he returned in the fourth, he seemed limited, going missing all three of his shot attempts and committing two turnovers in the final moments. Luka was responsible for eight of the Lakers' 20 turnovers, which ultimately contributed to their loss.
Fourth Quarter Collapse and LeBron's Birthday
The Lakers were within striking distance at the end of the third, trailing 96-88. However, the final quarter was disastrous: Detroit opened with an 18-6 run, effectively ending the game midway through the period. The Lakers were outscored by 14 points in the fourth, showing a lack of defensive intensity and execution when it mattered most. LeBron James became only the 12th player in NBA history to step on the floor at age 41 or older. While he reached another milestone in longevity, his output was modest compared to his usual standards, finishing with 17 points. The loss was a disappointing note for the veteran, as the Lakers have now lost four of their last five games to close out the year.
The Pistons Prove Why They Are the Top Team in the East
While the Lakers' stars drew much attention, Cade Cunningham stood out as the top player on the court. He scored 27 points and provided 11 assists, skillfully breaking down the Lakers' defense. Detroit’s shooting was outstanding for their season, hitting a season high 63.2% from the field. It's important to note that this isn't the Pistons of 2024; Detroit now ranks as the top team in the Eastern Conference. This game was a defining moment for Cade Cunningham, who appeared as the game's best floor leader, outperforming both a 41-year-old LeBron and a frustrated Luka. Their ability to cope with the early loss of Tobias Harris demonstrated a depth and resilience that the Lakers, currently top-heavy, lack. For the Lakers, urgent changes are needed. They have only one win in their last five games. With the trade deadline nearing, if this pattern persists, significant roster changes are likely.
