The Los Angeles Lakers were able to win once again in Las Vegas, and their sophomore star, Josh Hart, continued to perform well.
Josh Hart of the Los Angeles Lakers has been continually proving himself at NBA Summer League 2018. He’s second overall in the tournament, averaging 23.3 points per game. While he isn’t a rookie, the NBA sophomore has helped the Lakers go win 4-0 this tournament.
On Thursday, July 12, the Lakers faced their Staples Center roommates, the Los Angeles Clippers. From the beginning of the second-round bracket game the Lakers took the lead.
Hart established himself by displaying his versatility. Known for his consistent defense, he took it to the next level with a steal and break-away dunk. Continuing his offensive show, Hart drove into the paint for a left-handed baby hook.
At halftime Hart had 9 points, 3 rebounds, 1 steal and 1 dunk. As a productive member of the regular season Lakers’ roster, some believe he is too good to be at Summer League. In the halftime broadcast, ESPN analyst Fran Fraschilla even said, “He’s a school yard bully.”
.@joshhart is the “schoolyard bully” of @NBASummerLeague. Won a title last July & played meaningful @Lakers minutes as rookie. Playing here like he owns the place.
— Fran Fraschilla (@franfraschilla) July 13, 2018
Love him or hate him, Hart showed up to Summer League eager to contribute. Even after being ranked 12th in the NBA for scoring two or more catch-and-shoot plays per game (higher than Klay Thompson and C.J. McCollum), his attitude doesn’t reflect his superiority.
The Lakers took home the win over the Clippers, moving forward to the quarterfinals. Throughout the victory, Hart showcased that he is more than just a three-and-D player. Branching out from shooting beyond the arc, his ability to penetrate and score was unmatched. Hart’s final stats were 20 points, 6 rebounds, 2 steals and 2 blocks.
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Doris Burke wasn’t wrong in saying that he’s “been there, done that.” Two short of the Summer League record, this is the Lakers’ 10th consecutive win. Josh Hart is the only Laker to be a part of all of those wins. The Lakers and Hart will play again on Sunday, July 15, against the winner of Detroit vs. Chicago.