In a standout performance, LeBron James recorded a triple-double, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a 116-106 win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday night. The victory helped the Lakers extend the 76ers' challenging start to the 2024-25 National Basketball Association (NBA) season, pushing Philadelphia to a dismal 1-7 record.
LeBron's triple-double powers Lakers to victory
LeBron James' all-around brilliance was on full display as he posted 21 points, 13 assists, and 12 rebounds, securing his second triple-double of the season and the 114th of his illustrious career. The 39-year-old forward hit the milestone early in the fourth quarter, solidifying his place among the NBA's all-time greats.
While James orchestrated the offence, his teammates contributed significantly. Anthony Davis led the scoring with 31 points, Austin Reaves added 20, and D'Angelo Russell, coming off the bench, chipped in 18 points. The Lakers, now 5-0 at home, bounced back from a rough 1-4 road trip to maintain their perfect home record.
The 76ers struggling without key players
The 76ers, already dealing with a rough season, found themselves without two of their top three players in the game. Former MVP Joel Embiid is currently serving a three-game suspension for shoving a reporter, and All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey missed the game due to a hamstring injury that will sideline him for at least two weeks.
In their absence, rookie Jared McCain stepped up with 18 points, but the Sixers couldn't find the defensive consistency needed to compete. Paul George was limited to just nine points, and despite a second-half surge, Philadelphia ultimately fell to 1-7 on the season, losing their fifth consecutive game.
Lakers' tactical adjustments
Lakers head coach JJ Redick made a key lineup change, opting to start Cam Reddish instead of Russell. This decision paid off as Russell excelled in a reserve role, playing aggressively and contributing significantly off the bench. The Lakers' well-rounded performance helped them secure the win, with a crucial 8-0 run before halftime and a 10-0 surge early in the second half to build a commanding lead.
Key takeaways
76ers: Winning without Embiid and Maxey seems an insurmountable task for the 76ers. Their defence was insufficient to keep them in the game against a more cohesive Lakers squad.
Lakers: The Lakers' ability to adjust, particularly with Russell coming off the bench, was a game-changer. The team's depth and James' leadership allowed them to bounce back from a tough road trip and stay perfect at home.
Key stat
LeBron James' 114th career triple-double places him among the NBA's elite. At 39 years old, James has recorded seven triple-doubles since passing Tim Duncan to become the second-oldest player in league history to achieve the feat. Karl Malone, the oldest player to ever record a triple-double, was 40 years and 127 days old when he did so in November 2003.
Looking ahead
The Lakers will host the Toronto Raptors on Sunday night as they look to extend their home win streak. Meanwhile, the 76ers return to Philadelphia to face the Charlotte Hornets, hoping to turn their season around after a rough stretch.
