The Los Angeles Lakers are back at full strength, with guard D’Angelo Russell making his return from injury in a 122-112 comeback win over the Toronto Raptors at Crypto.com Arena on Friday night. Russell, one of the key pieces the team acquired at the trade deadline, was a spark plug for the Lakers, picking up the slack for an off night from Anthony Davis, who took just seven shots and scored only eight points.
Russell was in the middle of the biggest runs, hitting transition threes and dishing assists as the game swung wildly to the Lakers during the second and fourth quarters. He finished with 28 points, five threes, and a plus-19. It was an impressive performance in his first game back, and it showed why the team was so eager to acquire him at the deadline.
Not to be outdone, guard Austin Reaves also had an impressive game, scoring 18 points on 8-for-13 shooting. Reaves’ energy on the court was contagious, as it seemed to inspire his teammates to dig deep and fight for the win. He was the fastest to loose balls, grabbing four steals on the night.
The Lakers’ depth also made a huge difference, with five players scoring in double figures. Wenyen Gabriel had a plus-19, the lowest of any bench player who played for the Lakers on Friday night. The team also made all 19 of their free throws, and allowed just 22 fourth-quarter points.
The game was physical and intense, but the Lakers never gave up. With Russell back in the lineup, the team was able to play with more pace and burst, something coach Darvin Ham said he expected to see. It was a great example of the team’s resilience and character, and a big boost to the team’s morale as they prepare for the playoffs.
