LeBron James, Lakers Struggling Through ‘Killer’ Schedule In aftermath Of NBA In-Season Tournament

The Los Angeles Lakers beat their opponents in the In-Season Tournament, but their return to the regular season wasn’t that successful. LeBron James and his teammates have lost three of the last four games. Lakers head coach Darvin Ham discussed the current situation and the schedule his team has this season.

It’s interesting to note that the Lakers lost a game right after unveiling the In-Season Tournament championship banner.

The New York Knicks shocked the Lakers with a loss. Players couldn’t handle Tom Thibodeau’s squad. Lakers players struggled to make simple shots and their struggle was real.

“I feel like our energy was up and down,” LeBron said. He finished the night with 25 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists.

The Lakers lost the first game after returning to the regular season. They beat the San Antonio Spurs, but lost the second game to the team.

“It’s tough. For the whole month of December we’ve really been on the road,” said Anthony Davis, who had 32 points and 14 rebounds against New York. “Hotel to hotel, you start getting delusional a bit, forgetting what room you in and things like that. But it’s the nature of the business. You gotta fight through it and find a way to get wins.”

The Lakers unveil the In-Season Tournament banner pic.twitter.com/TgjWSkLWiC

— Michael Corvo (@michaelcorvoNBA) December 19, 2023

Lakers can win more games despite their schedule

Ham is well aware of the fact that his players are winners. They are strong competitors and nothing can change that.

“I thought the way we played during that time was great,” said Ham. “Las Vegas wasn’t a long flight for us but … it’s gonna have an effect … There is a travel schedule. Us leaving Vegas Sunday, coming back to L.A., getting ready for another long trip, taking back off Monday, getting back here. Different people within our camp having minor illnesses or whatever. The fatigue that’s already setting in at this part of the season.”

The Lakers have a long list of injured players. Ham was sick and so was D’Angelo Russell. Unfortunately, the Lakers won’t get a rest before the Christmas Day game against the Boston Celtics.

“It can be a little bit of everything,” LeBron said about the factors working against the Lakers at the moment. “Get some rest. Get healthy,”

It is hard, but the Lakers will do their best and try to win the season.

“Try to finish out December the right way,” LeBron said when asked how the Lakers’ have to push through this stretch. “Obviously, it’s been a killer for us, with the travel and games and things of that nature. But no rush for the weary. Gotta say mentally locked in.”