First NBA Cup Loss for Defending Champions
The Los Angeles Lakers experienced their inaugural NBA Cup loss on Tuesday, getting defeated 127-100 by the Phoenix Suns. This defeat broke their perfect 8-0 record in tournaments, which had included winning last season’s championship. Phoenix’s Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal teamed up to score an impressive total of 72 points, securing a dominant victory.
Group Standings Shake-Up
The loss resulted in a situation where the Lakers, Suns, and Spurs all have a 2-1 record, leading to a three-way tie in West Group B. Nonetheless, point margin is crucial for tiebreakers, and the Lakers are currently facing a significant disadvantage. The Suns have a significant 35-point lead over Los Angeles, putting the Lakers in a difficult situation.
Upcoming Challenge: OKC Thunder
The Lakers will play against the Oklahoma City Thunder, who are currently leading the Western Conference, in their last group match. If the Lakers lose to OKC, they will likely be eliminated from the tournament with a 2-2 record. Despite winning, the Lakers will still require assistance from other outcomes. A win by the Spurs against the Suns might create an opportunity, however, the point differential remains a significant obstacle.
Point Differential Problems
The Mavericks, with a record of 2-1 in West Group C, have an impressive +41-point difference. If they are victorious in their last group match against the Grizzlies, they appear to have secured their wild card position. The Lakers are in desperate need of a miracle to advance after their overwhelming defeat to the Suns.
A Pivotal Turning Point
The Los Angeles Lakers transitioned from being champions in the NBA to the verge of elimination in one disastrous second half. Currently, they are concentrating on survival in their group and dealing with the pressure of the important December matches. The former reigning champions are in for a tough challenge.
First NBA Cup Loss for Defending Champions
The Los Angeles Lakers experienced their inaugural NBA Cup loss on Tuesday, getting defeated 127-100 by the Phoenix Suns. This defeat broke their perfect 8-0 record in tournaments, which had included winning last season’s championship. Phoenix’s Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal teamed up to score an impressive total of 72 points, securing a dominant victory.
Group Standings Shake-Up
The loss resulted in a situation where the Lakers, Suns, and Spurs all have a 2-1 record, leading to a three-way tie in West Group B. Nonetheless, point margin is crucial for tiebreakers, and the Lakers are currently facing a significant disadvantage. The Suns have a significant 35-point lead over Los Angeles, putting the Lakers in a difficult situation.
Upcoming Challenge: OKC Thunder
The Lakers will play against the Oklahoma City Thunder, who are currently leading the Western Conference, in their last group match. If the Lakers lose to OKC, they will likely be eliminated from the tournament with a 2-2 record. Despite winning, the Lakers will still require assistance from other outcomes. A win by the Spurs against the Suns might create an opportunity, however, the point differential remains a significant obstacle.
Point Differential Problems
The Mavericks, with a record of 2-1 in West Group C, have an impressive +41-point difference. If they are victorious in their last group match against the Grizzlies, they appear to have secured their wild card position. The Lakers are in desperate need of a miracle to advance after their overwhelming defeat to the Suns.
A Pivotal Turning Point
The Los Angeles Lakers transitioned from being champions in the NBA to the verge of elimination in one disastrous second half. Currently, they are concentrating on survival in their group and dealing with the pressure of the important December matches. The former reigning champions are in for a tough challenge.
