Remember when I told you I was going to write a daily article on the happenings at Summer League? I’m sure you were hoping I was lying but I’m afraid to inform you I wasn’t. You’re stuck with me for the next five minutes. Well, unless you decide to exit the screen. Then I guess I lose.
It was another fun day in Las Vegas, although the sun was a little more relentless than it was yesterday. But other than that we saw all sorts of improvements. The main bit of good news was the performance from the Lakers. Well, at least for the first three quarters. After a 41-point shalacking, yes I just made that word up, consider it my Frindle, on Friday night, the team looked a lot better tonight.
The bright spot continues to be Robert Sacre. I mentioned last night that I liked what I saw from him, and tonight he put together a solid encore performance. He finished the game with 11 points and 10 rebounds. He also led the team in assists, but when that number is only two it’s not exactly noteworthy.
Regardless, the Lakers fell apart in the fourth as the Kings ultimately cruised to a double-digit win. But the feelings following this loss were a lot more positive. I think the team is coming together a bit, and with a day off to practice tomorrow, they should be in good shape to take on the Heat on Monday. Remember, the Kings and the Warriors – the two teams the Lakers lost to – are perennial lottery teams. This means they have more touted prospects on their Summer League team. This leaves the Lakers with a less talented roster. It’s an obnoxious excuse, but it’s somewhat valid.
Since we did it last night and I’m a sucker for continuity, I’ll add my favorite quote from day two. Today it was Denver Nuggets coach George Karl, who was apparently tired of not having any food.
“I’m too hungry to sit here any longer. Let’s go get some lunch.”
I love you, NBA.
Stay tuned tomorrow for my next recap. The Lakers have the day off, but maybe I can convince Jimmer Fredette to do the Dougie or something.