NBA Power Rankings: Everything revolves around LeBron James

9 of 30

NEW YORK, NY – DECEMBER 12: Magic Johnson attends the Los Angeles Lakers Vs New York Knicks game at Madison Square Garden on December 12, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by James Devaney/Getty Images) /

22. team. 20. . . Previous: 22nd. Los Angeles Lakers

Los Angeles was able to pick up a win on Tuesday against the Suns, rallying in the second half and improving their defensive effort to stymie the Suns for a 112-93 victory. Brandon Ingram had 26 points, and Julius Randle had 21 points. They picked up their fourth win in a row on Thursday, polishing off the Thunder, 106-81, leading by as many as 27 points in the fourth quarter. They were without Jordan Clarkson and Larry Nance Jr., who were traded to the Cavaliers prior to the trade deadline.

The Lakers welcomed Isaiah Thomas to their team for their game against the Mavericks on Saturday, with the former Celtics star coming off the bench and scoring 22 points while dishing out six assists. “I like the pace of this team,” Thomas said. “I like the energy the guys bring. Coach did the best job he could to put me in position to play to my strengths with only knowing a couple plays.” Los Angeles won’t play another game until Wednesday, on the road against the Pelicans, as they get a little break before they have to host the All-Star events.

Home/NBA