LOS ANGELES — Blowout wins have been a rarity for the Lakers, even at home. But with a home-heavy stretch approaching in March, it’s worth wondering if fans might start getting used to the purple-and-gold streamer celebrations after nearly a year-and-a-half of lean times.
The Lakers picked up where they left off in the most meaningful way: comfortably beating a team ahead of them in the standings. Without Steph Curry in the fold, the Golden State Warriors couldn’t stand toe-to-toe with the rebuilt Lakers in a 124-111 rout – a result that feels like it’s becoming surprisingly routine in L.A. since the trade deadline.
The most surprising part was who led the way: LeBron James and Anthony Davis were neither the first- nor second-leading scorers for the evening. James was just 5 for 20 from the field for 13 points with nine rebounds and eight assists, while Davis took only five shots, finishing with 12 points, 12 rebounds and two blocked shots.
The Lakers’ top bucket-getter was Malik Beasley, the trade pickup out of Utah, who finished 9 for 16 from the field for 25 points, going 7 for 11 from 3-point range. By early in the fourth quarter, Warriors coach Steve Kerr emptied the bench and ceded defeat as the Lakers’ lead ballooned past 20 points.
Before the trade deadline, the Lakers’ last double-digit win was on Jan. 6 against the Atlanta Hawks. Their last two – with the All-Star break in between – have both been by at least 13, the final minutes played out in garbage time. Blowouts have been few and far between for the Lakers this season – their shooting additions might point a way out of the wilderness.
“You have to believe that,” Ham said of James’ stated belief that if their new-look squad can get into the playoffs (and remain healthy) they would have a chance against anyone. “You have to be confident – completely, wholly – with everyone in the building.”
It was the second win over the Warriors in their past four games, but…
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