The Los Angeles Lakers ended their six-game road trip on a dispiriting note as they fell short against the Atlanta Hawks on Sunday afternoon, finishing 2-4 overall.
Anthony Davis returned to the lineup and played well, scoring a 27 points, but it was not enough as the Lakers suffered too many defensive breakdowns in the fourth quarter. Trae Young had been relatively quiet for most of the afternoon before turning it up in the final period, including a dagger 3-pointer that sealed Los Angeles’ fate.
Head coach Frank Vogel revealed the Lakers had a plan in place to guard Young, but ultimately failed to execute down the stretch.
“I thought our guys really competed and locked into the game plan<" vogel said. "we had a soft double team planned to guard trae and we too many breakdowns on it in the fourth quarter. he also hit few bombs, that 30-footer when was one-point game, got switch dribbled out 3-point line left him situation. just but our guys played with pure spirit. disappointed for them not get this w because ei felt like they well enough win i'm them." marks second consecutive tough loss lakers after nearly coming back against charlotte hornets. results focused looking forward as group. "state of is last two games fell short end. home put trip behind us. didn't wanted win, us ready next game whether bron or out." has been theme 2021-22 season, lakers' inconsistency throughout full length cost should have had. los angeles leading by 10 heading into an ill-timed offensive drought allowed atlanta climb ultimately snatch victory. sitting at 24-27, continue slip down standings these could very come bite try stay play-in tournament. things better once lebron james makes his return, even then, purple gold their work cut weeks.
Vogel proud Lakers did not come out with dud against Hawks
The Lakers have not done well in the earlier slates, so that coupled with the end of a road trip could have made for a poor showing. However, Los Angeles looked much more engaged for all four quarters and Vogel credited the team for making sure they fought until the end.
“Yeah, we’re under .500 so the margin for error is slim. We need every possession,” Vogel said. “I thought our guys were very engaged this afternoon, it’s the last day of a trip, a lot of times you see guys come out and have a dud of a performance, but that was not the case with these guys tonight. They brought it and built an 11-point lead against the hottest team in the league, one of the hottest teams in the league, No. 2 offensive in the league, and just a few plays short from getting a W.”
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!
