The Los Angeles Lakers continued the good form as they extended their season-best winning streak to five matches after a 136-134 win against Sacramento Kings on Saturday night. However, the match ended in controversy as Sacramento guard De’Aaron Fox was called for a foul on the Lakers’ Dennis Schroder with 3.1 seconds remaining on the clock.
Sacramento Kings challenged the referee’s call but the decision was upheld after a video review. Since Sacramento was already in the penalty, the foul meant two free throws for the Lakers, which helped the visitors seal a 2-point win.
On the other hand, De’Aaron Fox scored 34 points and nine assists for Sacramento Kings.
“If you foul, you foul,” Schroder said with a laugh. “It’s unfortunate, because of course the game is on the line, and it’s like for free throws to win the game. I understand that point, for sure. But I mean, end of the day, you can’t foul, especially when you’re in the bonus. He had a hell of a game, was hot, played great. For me, an All-Star with that team in fifth place, he’s doing a great job with that team.”
Meanwhile, Thomas Bryant scored a season-high 29 points on 12-for-14 shooting with 14 rebounds. Schroder was full of praise for Bryant, who has been filling in for Anthony Davis.
“Thomas Bryant, I mean he plays like an AD right now, close to it,” Schroder said. “Doing a great job being ready, staying ready. We’re finding him, getting second possessions for us — offensive rebounds, clutch buckets. He’s playing great.”
On the other hand, LeBron James continued his good show as he scored 37 points for the Lakers. The veteran added the aim is to play collectively.
“Just trying to figure it out and just trying to play for one another and not give in,” James said. “We don’t really care what everybody else says about our ballclub or what’s going on on the outside. We just want to play the game. When you play the game the right way, I think the basketball gods kind of gives back to you.”
The Lakers will face Denver Nuggets on Monday night.
