The Lakers are starting to develop a defensive mindset. Just like how Lonzo's passing is getting infectious with his teammates, KCP's defensive tenacity is rubbing off on this young group of Lakers. Unlike previous games, most of the jump shots taken by Washington were contested with very few miscues preventing wide open attempts or lay-ups. The Lakers were also effective defending the pick and roll resulting in their first game holding their opponent below 100 points.
Julius Randle continues to show he's a valuable part of the team. He didn't play many minutes in the first half but was a force to be reckoned with in the 4th quarter when the Lakers made their comeback to force the game into overtime. Once again, Julius was a rock on the defensive end as he effectively stopped Wizard guards on switches, blocked shots and provided help defense on dribble penetration. He still needs to calm down on offense as he committed untimely turnovers but did hit a crucial three pointer in the final minute of regulation. His play was rewarded by Coach Walton by keeping him on the floor for the entire OT period.
Kyle Kuzma and Larry Nance, Jr. were solid once again at the forward position as they combined for 33 points and 13 rebounds. Even though he didn't have a stellar game from beyond the arc, Kuzma didn't show any fear taking shots down the stretch and is slowing becoming a go-to shooter in crucial moments. Like Randle, Kuzma played in the final crucial minutes of regulation and all of OT.
Let's hope this game will mark the emergence of Brandon Ingram as the Lakers' go-to-guy. He played timid during the first three quarters but something clicked in the final period. Gone were the wild drives to basket which usually left him in awkward situations resulting in poor shot attempts or turnovers. He took (and made) pull up jumpers from the elbow, a shot he needs to utilize more given his length and skill. He started playing with controlled aggression resulting in crucial baskets, none more than his game tying drive and tip-in to force OT.
The Lakers are starting to know what it takes to win. Lonzo had a second straight subpar shooting night but still found a way to contribute to the team's victory pulling down 8 rebounds and dishing out 10 assists. Continuity in player rotation is still something that needs to be sorted out but I'm sure Coach Walton and his coaching staff will figure it out soon. Things continue to look up for the Lakers and I anxiously look forward to seeing them finally become the contender we all know they can be.
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