Lakers survive past Magic to bounce back in the win column.
Following a disappointing seven-point loss to the Pacers, the Lakers' had to come out of tonight's matchup with a much-needed win against one of the bottom-standing teams in the NBA. The Lakers were able to survive despite trailing by as much as ten points, coming back to defeat the Orlando Magic 116–105, outscoring Orlando 62–43 in the second half to move their record back to .500 at 23–23.
Despite committing a game-high 18 turnovers, the Lakers bench is what helped them climb back in the win column, with multiple Lakers providing a boost off the bench, with three bench players scoring in double figures.
LeBron James led the way for another night with a game-high 29 points on 52% (12-for-23) shooting with 7 rebounds and 5 assists in 33 minutes of action.
Head coach Frank Vogel gave high praise to LeBron after the game, calling him "The most unique player in the history of the game."
After being bench just under four minutes in the 4th quarter of Wednesday's loss to the Pacers, Russell Westbrook was able to shake off the night and give the Lakers a solid performance, finishing the night with 18 points on 47% (8-for-17) shooting overall from the floor, adding 11 rebounds and 7 assists in35 minutes played.
After the win, Westbrook spoke on his benching from last game, saying. "I think you know my reaction. You read it. After that, like I said, I've been here, doing my job since day one. Doing what's been asked of me since I got here."
Frank Vogel was asked about Westbrook's performance, saying: "Russ played a really good basketball game. He wanted to impose his will and play his part. He played a hell of a game."
In tonight's win, Carmelo Anthony was the Lakers' boost off the bench, scoring 23 points on 61% (8-for-13), knocking down four threes for LA, as he finished 80% (4-for-5) from behind the arc.
The Lakers' next matchup comes on a road against the 29–17 Miami Heat in their second away game in a six-game road trip.