The Los Angeles Lakers finally have a full roster back on the court—but their defense seems to have disappeared. In their latest setback, the Lakers fell 118-106 to the Orlando Magic on Monday night, marking their third consecutive loss.
Los Angeles started strong, holding a narrow 60-58 lead at halftime. However, their defensive effort crumbled in the third quarter, allowing Orlando to outscore them 34-18. The Magic’s Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero dominated the second half, scoring 32 and 30 points, respectively, with Wagner also contributing nine assists.
Luka Doncic led the Lakers with 32 points, while LeBron James added 24 points and eight assists. Despite their offensive contributions, Los Angeles failed to contain Orlando’s attack, continuing a worrying trend as the playoffs approach.
Fatigue or Deeper Issues?
Lakers head coach JJ Redick acknowledged the team’s struggles, citing a lack of energy and defensive lapses.
“We looked tired out there,” Redick admitted. “We couldn’t maintain the intensity we started the game with.”
Since acquiring Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks in early February, the Lakers went on an eight-game winning streak but have since lost seven of their last ten games. Key injuries, including James’ recent seven-game absence due to a groin strain, have disrupted their rhythm. While the team is now at full strength, their defensive execution has been far from solid.
Redick pointed to communication breakdowns and poor habits as the main culprits.
“We’ve prioritized rest over shoot-arounds lately, and it’s hurt us defensively,” he said. “We need to get back to the basics.”
Playoff Picture Tightening
Despite their recent slump, the Lakers remain in fourth place in the Western Conference with 11 games left in the regular season. They hold a comfortable lead over the ninth-seeded Sacramento Kings but will need to regain their form to solidify their standing.
On the other side, the Magic snapped a six-game home losing streak with their win and now sit in eighth place in the Eastern Conference, fighting to secure a playoff spot.
With time running out before the postseason, the Lakers must quickly correct their defensive issues. Otherwise, their championship aspirations could be in jeopardy.
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