Lakers’ Week 13 in review: Losses piling up
Lakers forward Kobe Bryant looks to pass after driving to the basket against Spurs forwards Kawhi Leonard, left, and Boris Diaw during a Jan. 22 game at Staples Center.
The Lakers lost all three of their contests through Week 13, and six in a row dating back to Jan. 14.
After falling to the Houston Rockets Jan. 17, 112-95, the Lakers the following Wednesday hosted the Sacramento Kings, an inconsistent team with hopes of climbing into the top eight in the Western Conference.
Behind a strong performance from DeMarcus Cousins, the Kings got the road win, 112-93.
Kobe Bryant said the Lakers “won’t accept losing.” On Thursday, he was officially selected for his 18th NBA All-Star game.
Friday was the 10-year anniversary of Bryant’s 81-point game. Both Coach Byron Scott and Kings Coach George Karl say they wouldn’t have allowed Bryant to score 81 points.
The Lakers drew one of the NBA’s top teams on Friday, losing to the San Antonio Spurs, 108-95.
Though the Lakers were competitive early, the Spurs pulled away to put them away.
Spurs Coach Gregg Popovich said he has a strong relationship with Scott.
The Lakers finished the week in Portland, falling to the Trail Blazers, 121-103, while struggling defensively.
Bryant made his final appearance in Portland, but his young teammates are getting schooled by opponents.
Meanwhile, center Roy Hibbert is going about his business without fanfare or complaints. Forward Julius Randle is working to get a handle on his shooting problems. Guard D’Angelo Russell needs to hit the weight room.
Bryant is third in the league in jersey sales. The Lakers are the second-most valuable franchise in the NBA.
Cleveland Cavaliers coach David Blatt was let go midway through his second season.
Email Eric Pincus at eric.pincus@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus
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