Lakers News: Luke Walton Credits Julius Randle For Rising To Occasion Against Joel Embiid

Matthew Moreno
2 Min Read
Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

When the Los Angeles Lakers last faced the Philadelphia 76ers, Joel Embiid had his way to the tune of 46 points, 15 rebounds, seven assists and seven blocks. He set career highs in points, assists and blocks.

Embiid did his damage from inside the paint and out on the perimeter, regardless of which defender the Lakers deployed. Heading into Thursday’s rematch, L.A. was keyed in on the talented big man.

While Embiid finished with a game-high 33 points, seven rebounds, six assists and five blocks, he was involved in key plays late that went in the Lakers’ favor. More specifically, ones that Julius Randle was part of.

As the 76ers were mounting their rally in the fourth quarter, Randle responded with key baskets and stellar effort on defense. The end result was a thrilling victory that snapped a season-worst five-game losing streak.

After the win, Lakers head coach Luke Walton commended Randle for his play when matched up against Embiid, via our own Serena Winters:

Randle’s 16 points tied with Jordan Clarkson for most off the Lakers bench. He grabbed three rebounds, handed out four assists, and one steal on a ball knocked away from Embiid late in the fourth quarter.

Moreover, Randle’s 30 minutes played were third-most on the team. He’s now scored in double-digits in eight of the past nine games. All the while Randle has provided needed energy and thrived in a role off the bench that he initially was leery of.

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Matthew Moreno is a journalist from Whittier, Calif., who is a credentialed reporter and is currently the Managing Editor of DodgerBlue.com and LakersNation.com. In addition to covering Los Angeles Dodgers and Los Angels Lakers games, Matthew has a strong passion for keeping up to date with the sneakerhead culture. It began with Michael Jordan and Air Jordan shoes, and has carried over to Kobe Bryant's signature line with Nike. Matthew previously was the lead editor and digital strategist at Dodgers Nation, and the co-editor and lead writer at Reign of Troy, where he covered USC Trojans Football. Matthew graduated from California State Long Beach University with a major in journalism and minor in communications. Contact: matt@mediumlargela.com