LeBron James bagged a three pointer shot with 58 seconds remaining to ensure the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Golden State Warriors in the new ‘play-ins’ format and secured a place in the Western Conference play-offs.
James shot a 34-foot three-pointer to claim a 103-100 win, despite struggling to see after a foul to the face.
The Warriors’ defense was nearly as resilient as that of the Lakers. James and Anthony Davis struggled in the first half, but combined for 36 (of their 47) points on 14-for-22 shooting after halftime.
Against two of the league’s top five defenses, the stars still found ways to score, and the biggest star of his generation hit the biggest shot of the night.
Lakers will face the second-seeded Phoenix Suns in the play-offs on Sunday. Stephen Curry scored 37 points but it was not enough for the Warriors, who must beat the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday to advance.
The Grizzles beat the San Antonio Spurs 100-96 in their play-ins game to set up the meeting.
The Grizzlies had Jonas Valanciunas, who finished with 23 points, 23 rebounds and three blocks.
They also had Brooks, who, while slowing down DeRozan, scored 24 points of his own.