Magic-Lakers recap: Defense helps L.A. capture second straight win

The Lakers defense helped them grind out a win on Sunday against a new, but undermanned Orlando Magic squad.

The Los Angeles Lakers took advantage of a golden opportunity on Sunday evening as they took care of business in a tight game against the Orlando Magic, 96-93. The Magic had an opportunity to send the game into overtime on the final possession of the game but the tying shot went begging and the Lakers left the winners of back-to-back games without both LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

The Lakers defense was solid all night long but even more importantly, it was good when they needed it under pressure in the 4th quarter. The Lakers also found enough opportunities in transition and in early offense, thanks to their defense, to create the separation needed to get another W.

Dennis Schröder led the Lakers with 24 points and six assists while Kyle Kuzma delivered a double-double of 21 points and 11 rebounds. Montrezl Harrell, their most consistent scorer since losing LeBron James, fought through an ankle injury to deliver 18 points, 11 rebounds, two blocks, and two steals.