The Los Angeles Lakers showed success in the Las Vegas Summer League and looked to go 3-0. Despite their early success, the Lakers lost their third game and are 2-1.
Lakers fall to 2-1 in Las Vegas Summer League
The Los Angeles Lakers failed to win their third game in the Las Vegas Summer League, this time against the Boston Celtics 95-90. Unfortunately, The Lakers were unable to capitalize on the momentum from their two previous wins against the Golden State Warriors on Friday and Charlotte Hornets on Sunday.
The Celtics proved to be too strong for them down the stretch. This loss was a crushing blow for the Lakers, who had been hoping to stay undefeated in Las Vegas. Los Angeles will look to rebound vs the 1-2 Memphis Grizzlies.
Lakers Player Spotlight
In a game where the young Lakers couldn’t get it done down the stretch in a tight contest, several players stepped up and contributed in a major way. Although they lost the game, the Lakers overcame getting outscored 30-17 in the third quarter and made a comeback in the fourth quarter. Despite the loss, the team showed resilience and never gave up. That’s exactly the fight you want to see in your young players. This is what builds a winning culture and encourages team spirit. Therefore, it’s important to recognize and reward the players for their hard work and dedication to the team. Furthermore, this will motivate them to keep pushing and striving for greatness.
Max Christie through five summer league games:
19.8 points
5.8 rebounds
3.8 assists55% from 3
96.8% FTIt'll be tough for the Lakers to keep him out of the rotation. So much to like at only age 20.
Christie's jumper was shaky in college then improved in the G League and he's… pic.twitter.com/LN8sHIkq9S
— Kevin O'Connor (@KevinOConnorNBA) July 13, 2023
The Christie affect
Max Christie was the team’s leading scorer with 24 points, and he continues to show why he deserves some minutes in the rotation for next season. He was the key to his team on the court, and his leadership was a crucial part of the team’s success in this year’s Las Vegas Summer League. Second-year players usually shine in their second round of experiencing the Summer League. Christie is no exception to this trend, and he will be looking to carry this momentum into the next season. He has already shown that he has the potential to be a great player in the league, and with the right opportunities, he can become a star player in the NBA.
The Lakers say Max Christie sustained a right hip strain in last night’s game and is day-to-day moving forward.
— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) July 13, 2023
Lakers guard Max Christie suffered a right hip strain vs the Celtics and is day-to-day moving forward. Christie’s injury is a setback for him and the Lakers. However, they are confident that he will make a full recovery and be back on the court soon.
Hodge on the rise
The Lakers signed undrafted guard D’Moi Hodge to a two-way contract. Hodge climbed his way up through the college rankings to Missouri where he averaged 14.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 2.6 steals in 29.1 minutes per game. Hodge has gained attention for his strong play in the Summer League. Nevertheless, it remains to be seen if he can make the transition to the NBA. Hodge finished with 22 points and 6 of 13 from three-point range vs the Celtics. He will most likely start the season in the G-League, but will have the opportunity to prove his worth with the Lakers franchise.
Lakers two-way guard D’Moi Hodge says he’s modeled his game after Kentavious Caldwell-Pope.
— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) July 9, 2023
Schifino improvement
Additionally, Lakers second round draft pick Jalen Hood Schifino has seem to found his rhythm. Jalen has been playing with confidence. Hodge will need to step up his game to compete with Schifino for a spot on the Lakers roster. Moreover, he will have a chance to show what he can do and make his mark in the rotation vs the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday.
Jalen Hood-Schifino navigating the screen, as he has done in Summer League so well, getting the defender on his back and hitting the middy pic.twitter.com/BMIEPtauIx
— Aram Cannuscio (@AC__Hoops) July 13, 2023
Hood Schifino contributed 15 points on 7-20 from the field. Hodge had a better performance. However, Schifino has been a more consistent player throughout his career and has shown the ability to step up in big moments. Therefore, Hodge will need to continue to play consistently well to prove that he deserves a spot on the team.
Swider growth
Finally, Cole Swider’s time in the G-League has seemed to pay off, as he has been the most consistent player from beyond the arch and has looked much more comfortable on the floor. He scored 17.1 points per game and 43% from three-point range. Swider has shown maturity in taking effective shots, while also setting up his teammates for open looks. He finished with 15 points on 4 out of 8 shooting in 25 minutes. Therefore, Swider’s consistent play has earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches.
What’s next for the Lakers
As a whole, the Lakers have outdone themselves with the future talent of the franchise. Each player is unique and has proven to be a great addition to the team. Furthermore, the team looks to be a strong contender for the NBA Championship this upcoming season. With the combination of veteran players and newcomers, the team has a great mix of experience and youth. Moreover, every player is an asset and will help the team reach their goals.
