Below is a running diary of the Lakers’ matchup against the Atlanta Hawks, with comments drawn from Mike Trudell’s @LakersReporter Twitter account, to ensure you’re covered from start to finish.
First Quarter
Julius Randle scored on consecutive trips, with a pull-up jumper, then a transition dunk to put LAL up 13-12 on ATL early.
Randle’s hot start continued as he, left uncovered, hit a 3 from the top of the key to reach 9 points on 4 of 6 FG’s, plus 4 boards.
ATL took a 24-19 lead out of the 1st Q, LAL allowing 58% FG’s. LAL got 9 points from @J30_RANDLE, but otherwise struggled from the field.
Second Quarter
Nance, Jr. went for a big facial earlier and just missed … but he got his 2nd attempt to go. LAL down 37-32. https://t.co/BxUIwynHGP
ATL went on a big run in the final minutes of the half to open up a 54-36 lead. LAL shot just 35.6%. Hawks rank 2nd in defensive efficiency.
Third Quarter
Julius Randle’s been effective tonight (14 points on 6 of 11 FG’s plus 9 boards) despite a tough matchup w/Paul Millsap.
Fourth Quarter
LAL trail 74-60 at the start of the 4th Q, with Larry Nance, Jr. scoring on the 1st possession of the 4th Q to reach 6 points w/7 boards.
Russell can’t find the bucket tonight, after averaging 25 ppg in his last 4. He’s 2 for 12 for 5 points w/4 assists in 24 minutes.
