Playing at Barclays Center for the first time since he was traded by the Brooklyn Nets, Brook Lopez was instrumental in the Los Angeles Lakers snapping their two-game losing streak with a 102-99 victory.
Lopez tied with Julius Randle for the team lead with 19 points. He only had three rebounds, but did add three blocks, including one that came late in the fourth quarter to help the Lakers preserve their lead.
In a game that saw both teams go on respective runs, Lopez was key in swinging the tide in the third quarter. As the Lakers battled to remain within striking distance, he connected on back-to-back 3-pointers.
That was followed by consecutive 3-pointers from Jordan Clarkson, who was 0-for-5 in the first half. As for Randle, he helped the Lakers get off to a strong start.
Much like he has against other teams this season, Randle took advantage of a mismatch by getting on the block and bullying his way to one basket after another. In addition to tying for the team high in points, Randle added 12 rebounds for his 13th double-double this season.
Beyond the two big men, Brandon Ingram also turned in an all-around effort. He was pressed into point guard duty because of Lakers head coach Luke Walton replacing Tyler Ennis in the starting lineup with Josh Hart.
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