3. Young core shines vs. OKC
This was a game that had many Lakers fan buzzing all around the world for a multitude of reasons.
It was the proverbial coming out party for the Lakers young core.
Even though early on the Lakers dug themselves in a hole by going down by 17 points in the first half, they were able to put together one of the best performances that we had ever seen from a group of talented young players.
Kyle Kuzma led the way with 32 points, including many clutch baskets down the stretch. Lonzo Ball tallied 18 points and 10 assists but it was his aggressiveness and clutch shot to open the overtime that had many fans raving about the game.
Or perhaps it was the monster game from now Clippers big man Ivica Zubac, who absolutely dominated scoring 26 points on only 14 shots to go along with 12 boards.
His pick and roll play alongside Lonzo Ball was just exciting basketball to watch. It was ultimately one of many performances that heightened his value enough to warrant him getting a nice payday recently from the Los Angeles Clippers.
Brandon Ingram, on the other hand, did struggle this game, only managing to score eight points. But, he made up for it with his passing and playmaking as he led the team with 11 assists.
Without LeBron, going on the road and beating the Oklahoma City Thunder led by that guy who used to play for the Thunder but now plays for the Clippers, was a big confidence boost for the young core and it forced a lot of people to ultimately put some respect on their names.