The Los Angeles Lakers have ended on the losing side for the fourth straight time. L.A. hosted the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday at Staples Center, but couldn't capitalize on the home floor advantage. The Bucks, who had a 15-point lead at the halftime, cruised past the Lakers with an 117-113 win. The season-series between the two now stands at 1-1, and there won't be any changes as the two teams won't be meeting anymore this season. The LakeShow's struggles continue as the team has dropped 15 of their 18 matches played since the beginning of February, reveals ESPN.
Jordan Clarkson again a starter
Los Angeles Lakers point guard Jordan Clarkson was given starting five duties by coach Luke Walton for the fourth straight game. Clarkson, who replaced D'Angelo Russell in the opening lineup, led his team with 21 points scored against the Milwaukee Bucks. On the other side, Russell who came off the bench notched 14 points on 5-of-9 shooting from the field in 21 minutes of action.
Except for Clarkson and Russell, four other Laker players finished the game in double-digit scoring. Starting rookie Ivica Zubac scored 18 points, while two other starters Nick Young and Brandon Ingram contributed with 16 and 11 points respectively. Larry Nance Jr. had a good game off the bench, collecting 14 points along with four rebounds and four steals.
Where do the Lakers stand now?
The Los Angeles Lakers now have a record of 20 wins and 49 losses on the season. The team is ranked last in the Western Conference and the Pacific Division, while being the second-worst team in the entire NBA, behind the Brooklyn Nets (13-55). So far this campaign, the Lakers have won 12 and lost 20 matches at Staples Center.
Their chances of having a top-3 pick in this year's NBA draft haven't been jeopardized on Friday.
What's next for L.A.?
It doesn't get any easier for the Los Angeles Lakers as they're set to clash against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday. The two teams had met once this season when the Cavs defeated the Lakers 119-108 in Ohio. It remains to be seen if L.A. can surprise the top-ranked team in the Eastern Conference.
