LeBron James Credits Lakers For Picking Up ‘Big Win’ Over Thunder
LeBron James, Lakers, Thunder
Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Lakers ended a four-game slide in a big way on Saturday night by defeating the Western Conference No. 2-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder to close out what has been arguably L.A.’s worst stretch of basketball this season. They did so behind a starting lineup change and a dominant performance from a soon-to-be 39-year-old LeBron James.

James dropped 40 on 13-for-20 shooting to go along with seven rebounds, seven assists, two steals and two blocks in the victory, leading the way alongside a new-look starting lineup that featured Anthony Davis, Taurean Prince, Cam Reddish and Jarred Vanderbilt. Darvin Ham’s defense-first lineup paid dividends because of the elite performances of the Lakers’ two stars.

The Lakers elder statesman and superstar spoke about how important it was for the team to win a game against an opponent like that after the way they had been playing recently, as seen on Spectrum SportsNet:

“We needed this win. We didn’t want to end the road trip obviously in a losing effort. We knew the second night of a back-to-back against Minnesota was gonna be very difficult on us so to come in here against a team that has been playing extremely well basketball throughout the season and get a win is a big win for us.”

James has always been one to focus on the team first above his own personal accomplishments, but he did admit that impacting the game the way that he did to help the Lakers get back on track brought him some pride:

“I mean, to know I can go out and still make game-winning plays, can affect the game in multiple ways and still close out a game in the fourth quarter when our team needed it when they started making a run, is always a good feeling for sure.”

The Lakers certainly don’t want James to have to put up 40 points every night, but having a near 39-year-old capable of carrying them to victory from time to time is hardly a bad thing. James, on Saturday night, proved once again why he is one of the greatest to ever play the game, and why in Year 21 teams are still being built around him.

LeBron James reflects on first matchup with Kobe Bryant

Next up for the Lakers is a big Christmas Day matchup with the Boston Celtics. With it being the holiday season, James has been looking back on some of his greatest NBA memories and recently reflected on his first matchup with Lakers legend Kobe Bryant.

Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!

You May Also Like

Lakers Nation Free Agent Of The Week: Trevor Ariza

[new_royalslider id=”156″] With free agency a week away, we continue our look…

Hawks’ Trae Young Believes Lakers Winning In-Season Tournament Is Great For NBA

The NBA added the In-Season Tournament this season and it proved to be a massive success, likely becoming an integral part…

Lakers News: Darvin Ham Appreciates LeBron James Serving As Extra Coach On Bench While Injured

With the latest injury update on LeBron James being that he is progressing and beginning on-court activities…

NBA Rumors: Executive Suggests Higher-Seeded Teams Should Get Choice Of Advantage During Playoffs

As the NBA plans to finally make its return, a number of things are beginning to become clear…