Lakers Overcome Injuries, Defeat Trail Blazers Behind Unexpected Performances from Nick Smith Jr. and Jake LaRavia
PORTLAND, OR – Despite being without LeBron James, Luka, and Austin Reaves, the Los Angeles Lakers secured a victory over the portland Trail Blazers on Monday night, fueled by career performances from rookie nick Smith Jr. and continued contributions from Jake LaRavia. Smith Jr., recently signed to a two-way contract, and LaRavia stepped up in a major way, leading the Lakers to a crucial win during a stretch where key players are sidelined due to injury.
The Lakers’ ability to find success even while short-handed highlights the team’s depth and the coaching staff’s commitment to developing young talent. This win is especially significant as it maintains momentum during a challenging period and demonstrates the team’s resilience. The Lakers are now 2-1 in the three games Doncic has missed due to injury.
“I thought our guys had that from the start,” Ayton saeid. “Then that confidence, belief and truly connectivity in that second half was just awesome to watch. It was just awesome.”
Ayton jokingly credited LaRavia, who previously scored 27 points against the Minnesota Timberwolves last week, with sparking this trend of improbable performances. “You’ve got to sit there and blame dudes like Jake LaRavia,” Ayton said. “He started all this. You know, next man up mentality. Showing up, being on time and approaching the game a different way.JJ has given us opportunities like this when our guys are out and given us the freedom. You’ve got guys like Jake LaRavia and Nick smith showing out.”
Smith, waived by the charlotte Hornets before training camp, entered Monday’s game with just 9 points in 30 minutes played all season. He described the night as ”probably the most fun I’ve had in a long time,” emphasizing the importance of the win for the team’s younger players.
“Just coming together as a group,getting a big win,especially with our best players out,” Smith said. “Bron, Luka, AR, those guys do a lot for us. Just to have a win like this for the young guys and the other players to step up like this is big for us.”
The Lakers have now had six different players score at least 25 points in a game this season, a feat matched only by the 1971-72 Lakers-who won the NBA championship-in their first eight games, according to ESPN Research.
