Lakers Fall to Warriors in California Classic Opener: Bronny James Sits Out

The Lakers faced a tough loss against the Golden State Warriors in their first game of the California Classic, ending with a score of 89-84. After a promising start where they led by double digits in the first half, the team faltered in the second half, especially in the third quarter, where they allowed 30 points.

The Lakers’ defense was a particular concern. Darius Bazley stood out, defending well and contesting shots, but the team struggled to stop the perimeter, leading to 25 free throw attempts for the Warriors.

Cole Swider emerged as a bright spot, scoring 24 points with impressive shooting, hitting six of eight from three-point range. He’s building on last season, where he played seven games for the Lakers, and his performance here shows he’s ready for more.

DJ Steward also had a strong game, contributing 20 points and stepping up in important moments. He mentioned feeling the need to control the game better and focus on communication. In fact, he not only scored well but also led with six assists.

On a different note, Dalton Knecht, last year’s first-round draft pick, had a tougher outing with only 10 points. He reflected on needing to shake off some rust, admitting he wasn’t at his best this time.

The Lakers will return to the court tomorrow against the Miami Heat. With a mix of fresh talent and some areas for improvement, fans are eager to see how the team will respond.

In the broader context of the NBA, teams often face challenges in summer leagues as players try to find their rhythm. History shows that many stars have had rocky starts during these early games but later excel in regular seasons. This pattern highlights the importance of patience and development in a player’s journey.

As the Lakers look to improve, keeping an eye on how they handle defense and play under pressure will be crucial. With players like Swider and Steward rising, there’s hope for brighter days ahead for the franchise as they navigate the summer league.

For more on the Lakers, check out the ongoing coverage on Los Angeles Times.

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Golden State, Lakers, Cole Swider, California Classic, Blake Hinson, Darius Bazley, Dalton Knecht, Bronny James, DJ Steward, Miami Heat