As the Los Angeles Lakers gear up for a crucial play-in matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans, Lakers legend Magic Johnson has chimed in, advocating for full-throttle effort from his former team.
Despite being the eighth seed, the Lakers hold a significant advantage over the Pelicans, having dominated their matchups this season with a 3-1 record, winning by an average of 25.7 points per game.
However, the decision to aim for victory tonight isn’t solely about the Pelicans. It’s about the potential playoff matchups that await. The prospect of facing the Denver Nuggets, although daunting given their playoff prowess, seems preferable to the uncertain path that could follow a loss.
Johnson is adamant that intentionally losing to secure a supposedly easier route is not the way to go. He highlights the competitive nature of the Lakers’ games against the Nuggets this season, despite the unfavorable results.
Yet, the Lakers face challenges of their own heading into the matchup. Star center Anthony Davis is questionable due to back spasms, while reserve forward Cam Reddish’s availability is also in doubt due to an ankle sprain. The absence of key players like Jarred Vanderbilt and Christian Wood further complicates the Lakers’ situation.
With Magic Johnson’s endorsement ringing loud and clear, the Lakers are poised to approach the game with determination, aiming to secure their playoff fate on their own terms.
