Lakers Unable to Complete Comeback Against 76ers

The Los Angeles Lakers were expected to be serious NBA title contenders this season, but nothing has gone right for the team. If they do not step up their play over the next month, then there is a real chance that the Lakers miss the playoffs entirely. The team simply cannot afford to give away any more wins with only 10 games left on the schedule. The Lakers looked to get a key win when they played the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night.

 First Half

Pulling off a win over one of the best teams in the league would be a monumental feat for Los Angeles, especially with the team forced to play without LeBron James. Despite missing their star player, the Lakers hung tough with the 76ers in the early goings of this game. A solid defensive effort put the Lakers up by three points at the end of the first quarter.

Unfortunately, the solid play did not carry over to the second quarter. Philadelphia found their groove on offense while also stepping up their defensive play in a big way. The dominating quarter saw the 76ers score 34 points while only surrendering 22 points. This commanding performance allowed Philadelphia to take a nine-point lead into the locker room at halftime.

 Second Half

Both teams spent the majority of the third quarter trading baskets. With the starters struggling to cut the deficit, the Lakers turned to Carmelo Anthony and Malik Monk late in the quarter. This move instantly paid off. Los Angeles scored the final seven points of the third quarter to make it a 93-91 game.

The Lakers just could not seal the deal against a great team in the final 12 minutes. After getting the game close, Los Angeles never took the lead in the fourth quarter. Philadelphia responded with a few quick baskets every time it looked like the Lakers were going to take the lead. After a disappointing fourth quarter, the Lakers ultimately fell to the 76ers 126-121.

 Upcoming Schedule

The Lakers now hold a two-game lead over the San Antonio Spurs for the 10th spot in the Western Conference. Losing this lead over the next few weeks will put an end to the team’s slim playoff hopes. Los Angeles will look to get a much-needed win when they face off against the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday night.