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Video: LeBron says Anthony Davis’ missed FT wasn’t the cause of Lakers’ loss vs. Magic | News, scores, highlights, stats and rumors
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Video: LeBron says Anthony Davis’ missed FT wasn’t the cause of Lakers’ loss vs. Magic | News, scores, highlights, stats and rumors

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - NOVEMBER 16: Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers and LeBron James #23 stand during a break in the second half of a game against the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center on November 16, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that by downloading and/or using this photo, user agrees to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Derick E. Hingle/Getty Images)

Derick E. Hingle/Getty Images

Although LeBron James and Anthony Davis combined to miss four free throws in the final 39 seconds of the Los Angeles Lakers’ 119-118 loss to the Orlando Magic on Thursday, James doesn’t consider that the main reason they were defeated.

James told reporters after the game that both teams played well and that the Lakers “had our chances” to win, “but we couldn’t pull through.”

The Lakers led by as many as seven points in the fourth quarter. They had a 116-114 lead with 39 seconds left when James stepped to the free throw line. He made one of two attempts to extend the lead to three.

After Franz Wagner missed a tie-three on Orlando’s ensuing possession, Davis made one of his two free throws. Wagner made a layup to cut the deficit to 118-116 with 20 seconds left.

Davis would miss both of his free throws to give Orlando a chance to win the game. Wagner took advantage of the situation by giving the go-ahead signal with 2.5 seconds left.

After a timeout to set up a final play, Davis’ shot missed the rim entirely. It was uncharacteristically sloppy shooting from the Lakers’ two superstars, especially Davis. He was 9 of 9 from the charity stripe before the final minute of regulation.

The Magic got an incredible performance from Wagner in the win. He scored a total of 37 points, including 15 in the fourth quarter. The 23-year-old is averaging 25.4 points on 46.1 percent shooting with 6.3 assists and 6.2 rebounds per game in 12 starts since Paolo Banchero suffered a torn oblique muscle on Oct. 30.

Thursday’s loss ended the Lakers’ six-game winning streak. They’ll be kicking themselves for taking a late lead in a game where James and Davis combined for 70 points, 19 rebounds and nine assists.

The Lakers will look to bounce back on Saturday when they host the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena.