
Of their first sport since parting methods with head coach Mike Brown, the Sacramento Kings confronted one other setback by dropping to the Los Angeles Lakers 132-122. Highlighting the progress of the Lakers this season, Lakers ahead Rui Hachimura commented on the turnaround.
“We misplaced all video games in opposition to them. So yeah, it’s payback. We’re extra collectively now, and our chemistry is approach higher than final yr,” Hachimura mentioned.
As of December 29, 2024, the Lakers have accomplished 31 video games within the 2024-2025 NBA season, holding an 18-13 report. This victory got here with out LeBron James, who was sidelined because of sickness. His absence marked his third missed sport this month, following earlier absences in opposition to Portland and Minnesota.

Regardless of the absence of their marquee participant, the Lakers leaned on standout performances from heart Anthony Davis and guard Austin Reaves to safe the win. Though issues about his ankle lingered, Davis dismissed any doubt, declaring, “I used to be going to play. My ankle was nice.” Davis delivered a commanding 36 factors and 15 rebounds, whereas Reaves contributed 26 factors and a career-high 16 assists.
Associated Tales
Dodgers Obtain World Sequence Glory
UCLA Turns into Prime-Ranked Crew After Victory Over South Carolina
“Guys had been flying round, chopping arduous, screening arduous, and doing what we had been purported to be doing,” Davis mentioned.
Their contributions had been pivotal in navigating a tightly contested first half and setting the tone for the remainder of the sport.

The depth continued, with the sport tied at 54 late within the second quarter. With 3:50 remaining within the first half, Davis capitalized on consecutive fouls, sinking free throws to provide the Lakers a slim lead.
Because the Kings struggled offensively within the latter a part of the half, the Lakers discovered their rhythm and started to drag away. By the fourth quarter, their dominance was evident, emphasised by a 112-93 lead with 10:20 remaining.
“The primary and third quarters had been unhealthy for us. Giving up two 40-point quarters won’t ever enable you win a sport, however I feel the third and fourth quarters had been significantly better,” Kings guard De’Aaron Fox mentioned.

Reaves emerged as a standout participant, contributing almost 1 / 4 of the full factors the Lakers made. His efficiency drew reward from followers, underscoring his rising significance to the staff.
“It’s by no means enjoyable to not have [James],” Reaves mentioned. “He creates a lot chaos and safety for us. However everyone is aware of they’ve obtained to step up and do one thing to assist us achieve success.”
This win, coming simply days earlier than James’ fortieth birthday, highlighted how the Lakers can carry out underneath stress and adapt to challenges. The depth and improved chemistry had been evident, displaying their potential for sustained success this season.