Grading the Los Angeles Lakers starting five in its season debut

Tuesday night was the start of a new journey for players with hopes of hoisting the Larry O’Brien trophy. After several months of storylines, rumors, and transactions, the NBA tipped off its regular season with two dynamic matchups. Joel Embiid and the Sixers traveled to TD Garden to take on the former Eastern Conference champions. LeBron and the Los Angeles Lakers were scheduled to take on the Warriors- the defending NBA champions.

James wanted similar results as the Celtics in Los Angeles’ season debut. Stephen Curry and his teammates were ready to defend their home court, but first, they were awarded their championship rings. When ceremonies concluded, the Lakers and Warriors went to battle. A slow start in the beginning minutes disrupted Los Angeles chemistry. Golden State’s three-minute scoring drought helped Darvin Ham’s squad close the gap before the end of the quarter.

Los Angeles Lakers’ big three looks for help against explosive Warriors offense.

Containing, contesting, and controlling were the points of emphasis for Ham’s squad entering the game. Limiting three-pointers and crashing the defensive board was a solid game plan to defeat the Warriors’ three-point shooters. Contested shots caused the Warriors to miss twelve consecutive shots entering the second quarter. Defensive efforts kept the score close, but an explosive Warriors’ run erased the Lakers’ efforts in the final minutes.

A seven-point deficit did not seem too steep for the Lakers. Efforts from LeBron James and Anthony Davis provided a spark early in the third. Intensity on defense dwindled – presenting Klay Thompson with an opportunity to heat up. His shooting caused the Lakers to focus on him throughout the quarter, giving teammates room to grow the lead. Stephen Curry dominated, cashing in on a barrage of three-pointers – closing the book on a Laker comeback.

Los Angeles Lakers starting five’s grade for Opening Night Grade: C-

The Warriors outscored the Lakers 32-19 in the third. James was responsible for more than half of Los Angeles in the quarter, creating momentum for a strong finish.

At the final buzzer, Los Angeles could only reflect on their disappointing performance. Darvin Ham’s roster needs help in multiple areas. LeBron James was the only highlight of the team’s performance. His 31 points were accompanied by 14 rebounds – earning the veteran a double-double in the first game of his 20th season.

Los Angeles’ big three combined for 77 points in the loss. Turnovers (21) disrupted the offense and helped the Warriors score transition three-pointers.

Russell Westbrook also earned a double-double. His nineteen points and eleven rebounds were noteworthy and helped the offense when facing a drought. Anthony Davis finished the game with twenty-seven points and two blocks. Assistance from their supporting cast was non-existent. 9 players finished with less than ten points – including starting point guard Patrick Beverley (3) and Lonnie Walker IV (5).

Similar offensive issues caused the Lakers to miss the playoffs last season – causing concerns for fans in Los Angeles. The Golden State Warriors are a strong opponent, but excuses for a loss don’t exist in the NBA. Darvin Ham and his staff must find ways to get other role players comfortable on both sides of the ball to succeed this season.

A 123-109 loss is rough, but the Lakers will make adjustments.