The Los Angeles Lakers were decimated by the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Cup quarterfinal to book a spot in Las Vegas.
The San Antonio Spurs just got a massive win over the Los Angeles Lakers, now advancing to the semi-finals of the NBA Cup to face the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Lakers bizarrely gave up a 26-8 run early in the game, losing the lead and never really getting it back again.
The Spurs led by 22 at one point in the game. And despite the LA Lakers’ best efforts to fight back, their defense just couldn’t hold off the San Antonio Spurs.
What makes this win from the Spurs even more impressive is that they managed to do it without Victor Wembanyama, who was out with an injury.
LA Lakers defense gets exposed by San Antonio Spurs
The biggest takeaway from this loss is that the LA Lakers have no chance at competing for an NBA championship with the roster they have.
Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and LeBron James can only do so much, but the rest of their team is abysmal, especially on the defensive end.
Do the LA Lakers have the best backcourt in the NBA?
Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are the 4th duo in 50 years to each record 30+ points in 3 straight games!
How far can this duo take the Lakers?
- Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves (Lakers, 2025)
- Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard (Bucks, 2023)
- Monta Ellis and Corey Maggette (Warriors, 2010)
- George Gervin and Mike Mitchell (Spurs, 1984)
The Lakers gave up so many points in the paint, and made some unnecessary fouls in the second half that kept undercutting their effort to make a comeback.
Is LeBron James’ presence a bad thing for Austin Reaves?
Against the San Antonio Spurs, Austin Reaves had one of his worst games of the season, putting up just 15 points on 6-16 shooting.
For whatever reason, Reaves’ strong start to the season hasn’t carried over since the return of LeBron James. One has to wonder whether James’ presence is negatively impacting Reaves.
Is LeBron James holding back Austin Reaves?
Austin Reaves struggles vs. San Antonio Spurs
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Reaves’ numbers without LeBron James have been significantly better than with the 4-time NBA champion. The LA Lakers may have to keep a close eye on the situation.
LA Lakers must make trades to improve this roster
One thing became crystal clear to the LA Lakers after this game – they must make some trades to improve their roster.
This roster is too top-heavy and does not have the depth to compete for an NBA championship. The first thing the Lakers must do is land some defensive experts.
Rob Pelinka has no reason not to go all-in on this squad, as they have the potential to make a deep run in the playoffs.
But with their current pieces, there is a huge ceiling on them, and it will take a few miracles for them to reach the Western Conference Finals.
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