The Los Angeles Lakers began a difficult four-game road trip on Saturday with a contest against the Cleveland Cavaliers. It looked to be a good test, considering they came into the game with a 2-5 record away from Crypto.com Arena.
The Lakers produced a 16-8 start, but Donovan Mitchell helped erase that lead with the aid of some Lakers turnovers over the next several minutes. The Lakers gave up 40 points in the first quarter, 30 coming in the last five minutes and change of the quarter. Cleveland shot a high percentage and scored a dozen fast-break points in the period.
Los Angeles fought back within one at halftime, and finally flexed its defensive muscles afterward, holding the Cavs to 23 points in the third quarter. The Lakers surged ahead by eight points with less than four minutes left in the fourth quarter. The Cavs challenged afterward, but the Lakers held on for a 121-115 victory.
They outrebounded the Cavs, even though the Cavs have a strong frontline that includes Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley, who combined for 20 boards. L.A. also managed to get offensive production from its non-stars, something it has had trouble doing this season.