The Los Angeles Lakers (1-4) tallied their first victory of the season on the road against the still-winless Brooklyn Nets (0-6).
The Lakers, having struggled mightily through their first four games, were able to turn things around on Friday, narrowly-edging out the ailing Nets. Second overall pick D'Angelo Russell was able to help lead the way for the Lakers, posting 16 points and recording three steals in 23 minutes of play. Developing forward Julius Randle also contributed to the Los Angeles cause, delivering totals of 14 points and seven rebounds. Veteran Kobe Bryant, however, struggled from the field, shooting just 5-16 on the night.
Despite strong play from the team's starters, Brooklyn was unable to pull ahead of Los Angeles in the end. The Nets saw solid outings from veterans Joe Johnson (22 points, two steals) and Brook Lopez (23 points, 10 rebounds, four blocks), but saw few contributions off the bench. The loss marks a league-worst sixth in a row for the Nets, and the team now sits at the bottom of the Atlantic Division and the Eastern Conference. As Boston owns the rights to the team's draft pick this year, the Nets will fight hard to turn the season around after a disappointing start.
Los Angeles will continue their road trip on Sunday as they face the Knicks at Madison Square Garden, while the Nets will have a quick turnaround as they travel to Milwaukee to face the Bucks on Saturday.
