While LeBron and Bronny Prepare for Their Historic Family Pairing, the Lakers Shrug Off the Critics

The Lakers' Loss to the Grizzlies Seems to be a Distant Memory

The Los Angeles Lakers were embarrassed on national television by the Memphis Grizzlies 121-109 on December 23. Since then, the Lakers have won six games in a row. Anthony Davis stepped up in LeBron's absence averaging 37 points, 23 rebounds, and 5 assists in the three games LeBron missed with an ankle injury. LeBron returned on December 28 to put up 43 points against the Hornets.

AD Steps Up With Impressive Numbers

This season, LeBron James and Anthony Davis have been criticized for not playing up to their full potential. LeBron has had multiple injuries and Davis has been inconsistent. However, in the three games LeBron missed with an ankle injury, Davis put up some impressive numbers. He averaged 37 points, 23 rebounds, and 5 assists. This shows that Davis is capable of being a dominant force when LeBron is not on the court.

Lakers Defense Has Been Stellar

The Lakers' defense has been stellar in their six-game winning streak. They have held their opponents to an average of 105.3 points per game, which is the fourth-best in the NBA during that span. The Lakers have also forced 10.7 turnovers per game, which is the eighth-best in the NBA during that span.

Lakers are a Top Contender

The Lakers are now 21-16 and are currently the fifth seed in the Western Conference. They are only 3.5 games behind the Denver Nuggets for the No. 1 seed. The Lakers have the talent and experience to be a top contender in the NBA. They will need to continue their strong play to prove the critics wrong.