The Los Angeles Lakers had some players represent the franchise well on All-Star Weekend. Can this help them build momentum for the final stretch?
Coming into the All-Star Weekend, the Los Angeles Lakers certainly did not have momentum. Trade rumors surrounding the team and Anthony Davis really seemed to take a toll on the Lakers, as pretty much the whole roster was rumored to be in the trade offers.
Potentially due to the trade offers, the Lakers were crushed by the Indiana Pacers. However, they bounced back really nicely with a big win over the Boston Celtics. Thanks to a game-winner by Rajon Rondo, the Lakers were able to get a win over their rival.
The win against the Celtics looked like it could be one that sparked the Lakers heading into the All-Star Break. However, the Lakers then lost to the Philadelphia 76ers and the Atlanta Hawks. While the loss to the 76ers isn’t a bad one, losing to the Hawks was a big blow.
With things not going well for the Lakers heading into the break, they did have two players representing the franchise over the weekend. On Friday night, Kyle Kuzma had a great performance in the Rising Stars Game. Kuzma ended up taking home MVP honors in the win for Team USA, as he was one of the best young players on the court.
On Sunday, Team LeBron was able to beat Team Giannis in the All-Star Game. Even though James didn’t pick up the MVP like Kuzma, his team made a big comeback to win the game, and he was part of it.
While neither of these games meant anything to the Lakers’ win/loss record, the strong performances on All-Star Weekend by Kuzma and James might be something that sparks the team.
Getting some momentum for the Lakers will be huge, as this is a team that needs a spark. As of now, the Lakers are on the outside looking in on the playoffs in the West. If the Lakers are going to make the playoffs, they will certainly need both James and Kuzma playing at a very high level for the rest of the season.