Deborah Walker
Jan 11, 2024 - 04:00

Seeking better cohesion, Lakers take on Suns

Lakers' win streak ends month-long slump, as coach-player disconnect rumors quelled. Davis' 41 points secure victory, Suns test unity.

The Los Angeles Lakers are finally feeling optimistic after a string of consecutive wins, ending a month-long drought. Reports of tension between players and head coach Darvin Ham have been put to rest, with the team now preparing for a home game against the Phoenix Suns.

After a series of losses, the Lakers are now 3-10 since their victory in the NBA's inaugural in-season tournament. There were reports of unnamed players having issues with Ham's strategies and rotations. However, Ham has assured that he has always maintained open communication with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, both of whom have been instrumental in the recent wins against the Los Angeles Clippers and the Toronto Raptors. Davis' impressive performance against the Raptors, scoring 41 points and making 20 in the fourth quarter, has been a significant factor in the Lakers' recent success.

The Lakers' game against the Raptors also highlighted their ability to draw fouls and capitalize on free-throw attempts, leading to a win that had Toronto's head coach expressing frustration with the referees. The team's focus on feeding Davis inside the court has also been crucial in their recent victories.

On the other hand, the Suns are struggling to find consistency, despite having star players like Bradley Beal, Devin Booker, and Kevin Durant. Although they showed promise with five wins in six games, they have suffered consecutive defeats, including a significant loss to the Los Angeles Clippers. The team's head coach, Frank Vogel, acknowledges the challenge of integrating these star players and emphasizes the need for them to build chemistry on the court.

Durant, Booker, and Beal have shown their scoring prowess, but the Suns have struggled defensively, as evident in their loss to the Clippers. The team is still working on finding their rhythm and learning to play together effectively.