The Lakers returned to form in a home game against the Suns, winning 107-96, largely due to the contributions of role players like Dorian Finney-Smith, Jordan Goodwin, and Jaxson Hayes, who compensated for the absence of LeBron James and Rui Hachimura. Despite injuries, the team's defensive efforts helped limit Phoenix's scoring, while stars like Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic delivered standout performances. This game marked a crucial rebound for the Lakers after a disappointing road trip, with their defensive intensity resembling the team that previously won eight straight games.
Even though they didn't have LeBron James and Rui Hachimura in their starting lineup, Hayes' return and Finney-Smith's and Goodwin's defense made the Lakers look more like the team that had won eight straight.
Healthy or not, that's who the Lakers need to be.
Playing their first of five home games this week, the Lakers recaptured their identity largely thanks to their role players, the team clamping down on the Suns during a 107-96 win.
Austin Reaves scored 28 to go with six assists and four rebounds. He hit a three over rookie Oso Ighodaro and drew a foul, Durant slumping back into his seat.
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