LeBron James-less Lakers face terrible defeat to Wolves after 22 turnovers

NBA star LeBron James' absence has played a major part in the Lakers' recent loss to the Timberwolves in the league.

LeBron James-less Lakers face terrible defeat to Wolves after 22 turnovers

LeBron James

The Los Angeles Lakers were determined to win when they arrived at Target Center on Friday. But it was an overwhelming job from the beginning because LeBron James was out for ‘personal reasons’. Sadly, the Lakers’ performance on the court against the Minnesota Timberwolves was far worse than anyone could have predicted; they appeared utterly disoriented and disengaged.

The young, quick Timberwolves won the game by 10 points (97-87) while keeping the Lakers to 38% shooting. The Lakers did not have the resources to compete with them and were without their leader and best player. After the game, Lakers star defender Anthony Davis was left devasted. This is because the Lakers gave away the ball 22 times in the game.

22 turnovers, can’t expect to win a game like that.

Anthony Davis told the media

With 23 points, six rebounds, and one assist on 9–20 shooting in 32 minutes of action, Anthony Edwards led the way for the Timberwolves. His teammate, Jaden McDaniels finished with 18 points, nine rebounds, and five steals on 7-11 shooting. Also, Julius Randle finished with 21 points, five rebounds, and three assists on 7-16 shooting.

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Meanwhile, with 23 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 blocks on 10–21 shooting, Anthony Davis gave it his all for the Lakers. However, it was insufficient to win the game. Max Christie finished the game with 15 points, five rebounds, and two assists on 5-9 shooting, while Austin Reaves finished with 18 points, six rebounds, and five assists on 6-16 shooting.

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Austin Reaves ‘happy’ to be back competing despite recent loss

Friday’s 87-97 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves was the Los Angeles Lakers’ second consecutive game without LeBron James. However, in the King’s absence, another Lakers star Austin Reaves returned to the court after missing out on a few games due to injury. Reaves opened up on his return as well as his side’s recent loss to the Wolves.

I felt good. The first five minutes I was winded, but I felt really good. I was very happy to be back out there competing.

Austin Reaves said in the post-game presser
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In addition to Reaves, his teammate Max Christie also chimed in on their recent loss. Christie claimed that they were ‘good defensively’ but lost due to their 22 turnovers in the game. With James absent, the Lakers HC JJ Redick will have to find another alternative until their star is back. Up next for the Lakers are the Memphis Grizzlies at the Crypto.com Arena.