In Utah, the Lakers did some un-Laker like things. They played with the type of energetic intensity not usually associated with a team trying to lose games on purpose. One of their journeymen players, Wayne Ellington, led all players (on both teams) in rebounds, and had his first career double-double. In an unusual twist, the Lakers third quarter was a bright spot for them except for the last two minutes. Even as the Lakers trailed, they made multiple comebacks, based on creating turnovers. They had 12 steals.
In Utah, the Lakers did some Laker like things. They were outscored in the last two minutes of the third quarter 11-2. (It had been a tied game 67-67). The Lakers were non-existent in the paint, giving up 46 points, and their defense was atrocious. The Jazz, a team that struggles from the three point line, shot 58%, 24 points over their average. The Lakers ball movement was anemic once again, 17 assists.
More from Lake Show Life
- Darvin Ham adds to Max Christie hype train after Lakers preseason opener
- Is LeBron James playing tonight? Latest Lakers vs Warriors update
- Can Darvin Ham put all of the Lakers puzzle pieces together?
- Lakers news: Darvin Ham knows his fifth starter, LeBron James and Rui Hachimura, Jalen Hood-Schifino praise
- Michael Malone’s painfully ironic comment has Lakers fans heated
But, Jordan Clarkson was a bright spot, 22 points on 63% shooting and 2 turnovers. He was the best point guard on the floor easily outplaying Trey Burke (7 points, 25% shooting) and Dante Exum (3 points,50% shooting). Clarkson’s second quarter steal and dynamic dunk was a game stopper.
"“Jordan did a much better job at running the offense. In pick and roll, he did a great job at running what was in front of him”, Byron Scott said. “We made a ton of mistakes at times but not because of lack of effort. Our full court press was really good at times. We were really active with our hands. I think it gives them confidence that we can play at this high level against good teams.”"
Late in the fourth quarter, the Lakers had a lead (sorry tanking crowd) on the road, a place that has been particularly hostile towards them. Coming into Utah, the Lakers had lost eleven straight road games. They had not won two games in a row since December 12th.
As is standard for the NBA, the game came down to late game execution for two of the worst NBA teams. Jazz center, Rudy Gobert, a brilliant shot blocker, did his best impersonation of DeAndre Jordan. He missed four free throws in a row. None were close to going in.
Under a minute left, it became a contest at the free throw line.
With 18 seconds remaining and the Lakers leading by two, Jordan Hill swished his free throws. It gave the Lakers a four point lead.
Gordon Hayward cut the lead to 2 by making his free throws with 13 seconds left.
Wayne Ellington answered back by draining his free throws.
Four point lead, 9 seconds left.
Utah’s Gordon Hayward shot an airball but the Jazz retained possession. One last shot. After a concession basket, Jordan Hill fouled Derrick Favors- not one of Hill’s most intelligent moments on the court. The ball rattled around the rim a couple of times before going in. One point Lakers lead.
Robert Sacre was fouled and he made both free throws, sealing the victory, 100-97.
"“Tonight we tried to win the game”, Byron Scott said."