Aloha,
We have had some impressive wins this year but that one was I believe our best game. Luka, was amazing. He was better than I thought he could be this soon after the trade and coming back from injury. And if there was any question if Luka, LeBron and Austin being able to start together, I think we saw the answer. A resounding HELL YES.
I think one can now, say with certainty that our defense is for real. It starts with some innovative games plan that the players execute beautifully. And they just played harder than the Nuggets all night. The coaches designated which Nuggets would have to beat us and effectively defended the others
While Luka got the game ball, if there was defensive game ball I would give it to Rui. Now don’t get me wrong, the entire team defended at a high level. But JJ singled out Rui, calling him a Warrior and I completely agree. Rui is extremely strong and he was in Jokers shirt all night. He is really hard to move. It’s kind of strange to me that some people still don’t realize how much he has improved defensively. I see it and the coaches point it out all the time but for some reason he doesn’t get the credit he’s earned.
Luka and Austin are two others that don’t get enough credit on the defensive end. Doe pointed out that Luka led the Mav’s in steals the years he played with him. He had 4 tonight. And Austin has elevated his defense as well. He’s been an integral part of that number 1 defense the last month.
Offensively I think we could be perhaps a top offensive team as well. Luka had 30, while Lebron, Austin and Rui all had 20+ Doe, Vando and Gabe didn’t contribute much offense but they will and their defense made a huge difference. Vando had the Joker visibly irritated.
I am liking JJ’s rotations. There seems to always be scorers and defenders on the court at the same time.
The Rockets lost so we are back at the 4th seed. And we are only 2 games back in the loss column from the 2nd seed. We have several tough games coming up but they are at home. If we continue to play this hard and execute we will win a lot of games.
I forgot to mention. We only had 8 turnovers to the Nuggets 20. Also think Goodwin is earning himself a promotion. He’s has been very good.
Absolutely thrilled about last night’s win! Michael, you nailed it. This was undoubtedly our best game this season. Luka’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary. Who would have thought he’d bounce back so spectacularly after the trade and injury? Teaming up with LeBron and Austin? A match made in basketball heaven!
Our defense, hands down, is rock solid. The innovative game plan by the coaches is paying off big time. We completely outplayed the Nuggets. The strategy to neutralize key players was executed flawlessly. Kudos to the entire team for stepping up their game!
Rui deserves massive applause for his defensive effort. JJ was spot-on calling him a Warrior. He was all over Jokic, making it incredibly tough for him. It’s about time people recognize his defensive prowess. It’s evident, and the coaches can’t praise him enough.
Luka and Austin are the unsung heroes on defense. Leading in steals and consistently stepping up—brilliant! Austin’s been a cornerstone of our defense recently, showing immense growth and dedication.
Offensively, we’re unstoppable. Luka dropping 30, and with LeBron, Austin, and Rui all surpassing 20 points—an offensive juggernaut in the making. While Doe, Vando, and Gabe may not have shone on the scoreboard, their defensive contributions were invaluable. Vando’s tenacity visibly rattled Jokic.
JJ’s rotations have been impeccable. Keeping a balanced mix of scorers and defenders on the floor has been a game-changer.
With the Rockets’ loss, reclaiming the 4th seed feels like a turning point. Just two games shy of the 2nd seed, we have a promising stretch of home games ahead. If we maintain this intensity and execution, the sky’s the limit!
Onward and upward, Lakers! Let’s keep this momentum rolling!
Can you believe it? Only 8 turnovers!
This low number of turnovers by the Lakers was a delightful surprise, especially considering my well-documented aversion to handing out “free candy” to the opponent. Even more exhilarating was Goodwin’s standout performance. His impressive contributions showcased him as an absolute powerhouse on the court.
It’s time to recognize just how impactful this game was. The disciplined play and efficient handling of the ball set a new standard, and Goodwin’s brilliance was the cherry on top. Let’s celebrate these achievements and anticipate even greater things to come from this team!
I am beginning to think JJ should be considered for the Coach of the Year.
Without a doubt, he deserves serious consideration. Some critics may try to undermine his achievements and label him a “cheater,” or Cheater of the Year, but let’s set the record straight: JJ is a mastermind and has delivered an exceptional performance.
His strategic brilliance, tireless dedication, and phenomenal results are undeniable. The man’s passion and commitment to his team shine through every single game. It’s high time we celebrate the incredible work he’s putting in, irrespective of the critics. Excellence, like his, deserves our applause and recognition.
You know Buba, the whole narrative coming into this game was how are the Lakers going to stop the Joker. But there was another narrative that wasn’t being discussed and that was how are the Nuggets going to defend us. There is a lot of fire power on our team, especially the starting unit and we are going to be a problem for a lot of teams.
You are absolutely right, Michael. I agree with your perspective. Bingo!
Wow is right. If I were a Mavs fan I’d be out looking for a new TV right now instead of writing this. Or maybe wait until after Tuesday’s game so I don’t break the new one too :). I agree with all of the above accolades, and am relishing last night’s win. No disrespect to AD and Max, but really? JJ masterminds this great defense and he gets to plug Luka into the mix? And did anyone else notice how many 3 ball shooters we have now? A bunch. Looking forward to much more of this perfect storm.
I agree with you, as always, John.