BONUS EPISODE: LeBron James Reaches 40,000 Points, but Lakers Lose to Denver

The NBA saw a bit of history, as LeBron James, who sets a record with every bucket, became the first player in league history to score 40,000 points. It was a good night overall for James, who finished 26 points, nine dimes and three steals. Rui Hachimura was fantastic offensively, scoring an efficient 23 points (10-15 shooting). Austin Reaves had 19 points and a career high 14 dimes. Overall, the Lakers got some production from D'Angelo Russell, as well. But where they fell short in a 124-114? In the battle of the stars, Nikola Jokic provided more offensively than Anthony Davis. The Lakers bench scored a grand total of 12 points. Michael Porter Jr. was 10-10 for Denver. They were out-rebounded 47-31. And down the stretch, when possessions are precious and high leverage, the Lakers were absolutely smoked by the Nuggets. Which has been the pattern over and over and over, no matter who is in the lineup for either team. The Lakers were up 110-108 with 4:11 to play, and were outscored 16-4 the rest of the way. For much of the game, it was encouraging to see the Lakers play well, including a top shelf first half offensively. But if the Lakers are going to get some badly needed wins in this stretch of brutally difficult matchups, they have to close.  HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!NissanOur friends at Nissan have a lineup of SUV’s with the capabilities to take your adventure to the next level. Take the Nissan Rogue, Nissan Pathfinder, or Nissan Armada and go find your next big adventure. Shop NissanUSA.com.LinkedInLinkedIn Jobs helps you find the qualified candidates you want to talk to, faster. Post your job for free at LinkedIn.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Terms and conditions apply.eBay MotorsFor parts that fit, head to eBay Motors and look for the green check. Stay in the game with eBay Guaranteed Fit at eBayMotos.com. Let’s ride. eBay Guaranteed Fit only available to US customers. Eligible items only. Exclusions apply.BetterHelpThis episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Make your brain your friend, with BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA today to get 10% off your first month.PrizePicksGo to PrizePicks.com/lockedonnba and use code lockedonnba for a first deposit match up to $100!GametimeDownload the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase.FanDuelGet buckets with your first bet on FanDuel, America’s Number One Sportsbook. Right now, NEW customers get ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS with any winning FIVE DOLLAR BET! That’s A HUNDRED AND FIFTY BUCKS – if your bet wins! Visit FanDuel.com/LOCKEDON to get started. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)