UPDATE: In a stunning setback, the Los Angeles Lakers fell to the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Cup quarterfinals, losing 132-119 on December 6, 2023. This elimination marks a critical moment for the Lakers, who were aiming for a second Cup championship in three years and a cash prize of $530,000 per player. The defeat raises urgent questions about their defensive capabilities as they prepare for the remainder of the season.
With the stakes high, the Lakers’ perimeter defense was exposed, allowing the Spurs to hit an impressive 44.7% from three-point range. San Antonio scored 17 of their 38 attempts from beyond the arc and inflicted severe damage in transition, netting 35 points—the highest allowed by the Lakers this season according to GeniusIQ. This performance underscores a troubling trend, as the Lakers’ defense currently ranks among the worst in the league.
Despite a strong start to the season at 17-7, this loss mirrors previous lopsided defeats that have raised eyebrows among analysts and fans alike. Compounding the pressure, Rich Paul, the agent for Lakers star LeBron James, recently expressed skepticism about the team’s chances for a deep playoff run. On a podcast, Paul stated, “I don’t think they have enough to get to the Western Conference finals.”
In response, James, who finished the game with 19 points, 15 rebounds, and 8 assists, dismissed the playoff talk, emphasizing the importance of building good habits during the regular season. “I can’t think about what we can do in the playoffs in December,” he asserted after the game, pointing to the need for improvement in defensive coordination.
Lakers coach JJ Redick acknowledged the emotional nature of being part of the storied franchise, stating, “It’s hard not to have overreactions.” Following the game, players including Luka Doncic noted that individual defensive performances need to improve. “Each one of us got to be better,” Doncic said. Redick added, “I think being able to contain the basketball is probably the most difficult thing for our team right now.”
San Antonio celebrated their 12th consecutive victory despite missing star player Victor Wembanyama due to injury. With no immediate reinforcements on the Lakers’ roster to bolster their defense, the pressure mounts for Los Angeles to address their shortcomings swiftly. “The spirit’s still high in here. We know we can do it,” said Austin Reaves, emphasizing the need for a unified defensive effort.
The Lakers must regroup quickly as they face a pivotal stretch in the season. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if they can turn around their defensive woes and prove their doubters wrong before the postseason arrives.
