Lakers drop Raptors in OT thanks to late-game heroics.
The Lakers snapped an 11 game road losing streak in tonight's win over the Raptors, beating Toronto 128–123 thanks to a game-tying last-second three from Russell Westbrook with 0.4 seconds left, sending the game into overtime to help the Lakers get back in the win column.
"Really a great team win." Frank Vogel said. "Happy to break this road losing streak we've been on."
With tonight's overtime win, the Lakers remain in the 9th seed with a 30–40 record, which would put them in the play-in spot to make the playoffs. They would play the New Orlean Pelicans, who are currently one game behind them in the 10th spot at 29–41.
LeBron James completely took over in the 4th quarter of tonight's overtime win, scoring 19 of his 36 points in the 4th quarter, shooting 58% (15-for-26) overall from the floor, adding 9 rebounds and 7 assists in 44 minutes played.
"It was a true team win tonight on both sides of the floor," LeBron said. "I know the season hasn't gone the way we would like it to go, but I'm having a blast playing this game and being able to come out here in front of some of the best fans in the NBA."
Russell Westbrook silenced his critics with his 10th triple-double of the season, scoring 22 points, 10 assists, and 10 rebounds in tonight's overtime triumph, giving the Lakers extra life by knocking down the game-tying three following a critical steal.
"A good energy for our team. Confidence." Westbrook said. "On nights like tonight is why I stay true to my faith, and I'm thankful to be able to go out and play."
The Lakers' next matchup comes on the road again this Saturday against the Washington Wizards, who currently sit at 29–40 as the Lakers look to build off tonight's overtime win and stay in the win column.