The Los Angeles Lakers entered Wednesday’s matchup against the Indiana Pacers in dire need of a victory, with the NBA postseason fast approaching. The Western Conference race is tight, with teams two through six jockeying for position in the standings.
After a three-game skid, former NBA legend and Laker great Magic Johnson made it clear what he wanted to see from his former team against the Pacers.
“All I want to see from the Lakers tonight is DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE DEFENSE!” Johnson posted.
While the Lakers gave up 119 points, they got the crucial stop when it mattered most, securing the ball with seconds remaining. With the game on the line, Luka Doncic attempted a floater that rolled off the rim, where 40-year-old LeBron James was waiting to tip it in just before the buzzer sounded, giving the Lakers a 120-119 victory.
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Shortly after the game, Johnson posted again with a message to the team after the big road win.
“What a thrilling finish with LeBron James’ putback!” Johnson posted. “It sealed a much-needed victory for the Lakers against the Pacers.”
James entered the fourth quarter with no field goals and just three points, putting his streak of scoring 10-plus points in jeopardy—a streak that had spanned 1,282 games entering the night.
However, after a stellar fourth quarter, James surpassed 10 points to extend the streak, finishing the game with 13 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23)© Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
With the win, L.A. improved to 44-28, and with 10 games remaining, they now prepare for the second night of a back-to-back on Thursday when they head to Chicago to face a red-hot Bulls team that defeated the Lakers by double digits less than a week ago.
Related: Pat McAfee Reacts with Two Words to LeBron James’ Epic Buzzer-Beater in Lakers’ Win