Russell Makes Massive Lakers History in 101-94 Victory Over 76ers

The Los Angeles Lakers, led by Anthony Davis and D’Angelo Russell‘s record-setting performance, secured a hard-fought 101-94 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers during Friday’s NBA action, ending a long-standing losing streak against their rivals.

D'Angelo Russell sparks Lakers to comeback win over Raptors - Los Angeles  Times

“Ugly, but we got the job done,” James said. “We defended (well) in the second half. They only had 18 (points) in the fourth. That’s big-time when the offense was struggling like it was. … We turned the ball over way too much and gave up too easy baskets, but when we got in the half-court, we buckled down and made them take tough shots.”

Russell’s achievement of setting a new Lakers season record for 3-pointers added a historic note to the victory, surpassing Nick Van Exel‘s record from the 1994-95 season.

“It just feels good to be part of one of these type of deals,” Russell said. “This franchise is one of the most prestigious, so to have my name be a part of it, more than grateful. Just continue to shatter it, if I can. Make it really hard for the next person.”

The game remained closely contested, with neither team leading by double digits, showcasing the defensive efforts and struggles on offense from both sides. Philadelphia coach Nick Nurse commended his team’s execution and effort despite the loss.

“I thought we played unbelievably hard (and) executed the game plan,” Nurse said. “I just thought we could not get enough offense to hang in there. … As long as we play our guts out, I can live with it. I’m having a hard time living with it right now because I thought we played so hard and executed so well.”

The 76ers, missing Joel Embiid, leaned on Tyrese Maxey and Tobias Harris but found challenges in translating their efforts into a win.

“With Joel being out, it’s created opportunities for other guys,” Harris said. “But in the grand scheme of things, we also know that this group has to figure out ways to generate that type of offense. In tonight’s game, what hurt us was not getting stops on the other end, because when we were out in transition, that was some of our best offense.”

The Lakers will try to build on this victory as they host Indiana next, while the 76ers aim to bounce back against the LA Clippers.

Related Posts

NBA Insider Says LeBron James Is Unlikely To Get Involved In Lakers Coaching Search

After firing former coach Darin Ham, the Lakers are already hard at work narrowing down the candidates for his replacement. According to NBA insider Brian Windhorst, LeBron James…

Warriors labelled best fit should 14x All-Star wish to be traded again

The Golden State Warriors-Kevin Durant reunion speculation continues to brew despite no indication from the 14x All-Star that he’s looking to move from the Phoenix Suns. Regardless,…

Mavericks forward pulled off epic troll job against Clippers amid heated series

The Dallas Mavericks knocked off the LA Clippers in six games in the first round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs to advance to the second round to…

Rich Paul Talks LeBron James’ Future as Lakers Head to Pivotal Summer

Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul hinted at how many NBA seasons are left for his top client and close friend LeBron James as the Los Angeles Lakers head to a pivotal…

Thunder’s cocky approach to guarding Luka Doncic could come back to bite them

Later today, the Dallas Mavericks open up their series against the Oklahoma City Thunder on the road. The Thunder are not necessarily an easy matchup for Dallas considering they’re…

Lakers’ LeBron James drops honest review of Warriors’ Draymond Green’s ‘biggest asset’

The Golden State Warriors may not have reached the playoffs this season, but they still have one of great core – headed by Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. Lakers…