Lakers Take Down Warriors; LeBron James Leaves With Groin Injury

LeBron James said he “felt something pop”. He left the game questionable to return with a strained groin injury. It didn’t matter for the Lakers.

After seeing its lead, which was once 19, trimmed down to 3, Los Angeles found its rhythm in a win over 127-101 Golden State. Seven Lakers were in double figures, including James. He finished with 17 points, 13 rebounds and five assists before exiting.

Big man Ivica Zubac paced the Lakers with 18 points and 11 rebounds. He had great chemistry late in the game with Rajon Rondo, who emerged in the second half when James went down. Rondo tallied a double-double with 15 points and 10 assists off the bench. Kyle Kuzma added 19 points in the win.

The Warriors struggled from the floor, shooting 40.9 percent overall and 25 percent from 3-point range. Andre Iguodala tallied 23 points and Kevin Durant added 21, but Golden State’s dynamic backcourt was silent after briefly showing up in the third quarter. Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson combined for 20 points on 7-of-24 shooting from the floor.

The Lakers showed tremendous resilience in the wake of James’ exit and it seems like the superstar won’t be out long. Los Angeles should be able to survive any absence given its depth and confidence after a big win at Oracle Arena.