A matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and LA Clippers is always awaited. The two teams have been rivals for a long time and are always striving to get the better of the other.
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However, what is supposed to be two of the best teams facing each other, has become two average teams struggling to grab wins and improve their record ready to face off. If it could get any worse, LeBron James could not help the purple and gold in any way. As usual, fans took advantage of it and just had to bash him on Twitter.
LeBron James fails to step up for the Lakers
LeBron James faced quite the debacle a few days ago. He entered the league’s health and safety protocols and missed the game against Sacramento Kings, only to realize that it was a false alarm. It was thanks to Anthony Davis‘ updates on the superstar that had everyone doubting whether James actually needed to be benched for 10 days or not.
His possible absence had Lakers fans all riled up. Well, he obviously brings out the best in his teammates and his presence mostly always improves their chances at winning a game, no matter what others say. However, he really made everyone question his competence while playing against the LA Clippers.
From being unable to defend pick-and-rolls to being overly committed to getting steals – he is only giving his opponents more open shots. At first, he was at least trying to make it up offensively but that went down poorly in the second half. His inability to keep the defense intact drew plenty of criticism on Twitter and here’s what they had to say.
Lakers not winning nothing with the way Lebron play defense
Lebron isn’t playing any defense and then he holds the ball for 20 seconds on offense… come on bro please play some d
LeBron can't gamble like that when he's the backline guy. AK
https://twitter.com/DMAC_LA/status/1466996267578392577?s=20
lebron sorry asf on defense tonight..
Lebron just looks desperate on defense.
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LA Clippers end up with the victory
USA Today via Reuters
Dec 3, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis (3) guards Los Angeles Clippers center Ivica Zubac (40) in the first half of the game at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Winning this matchup is all about establishing territory. Who is the better LA team? While the answer is quite subjective, this game probably helped many people choose their answers. Despite forming a super team this offseason, the Lakers have not been able to defeat the easiest of teams.
So, any expectations against the Clippers were already nonexistent.
On top of that, the Clippers managed to keep their rivals on their toes throughout. They grabbed a lead in the fourth quarter which they didn’t let go of and it was game over at 119-115. James ended the night with a meager 23 points, while Davis had 27. Yet, it wasn’t enough to hold them off. Perhaps, LeBron James really does need to buck up if they want to even make the playoffs this season.
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