The Los Angeles Lakers missed a huge chance to move into the an NBA play-off on Wednesday night, with LeBron James calling it the "toughest game of the year".
The Lakers lost 125-118 to close rivals Los Angeles Clippers, with both sides heading into the night with an identical record. But now, with only two games remaining of the regular season, the Lakers have to win both and hope results go their way elsewhere.
They're still likely to secure a space in the play-in tournament, meaning that they can still make the postseason if they can beat their WildCard rivals. But James was frustrated after their defeat, blaming scheduling as a major reason for their struggles.
It's still all to play for in the Western Conference, with two play-off spots still up for grabs. The Denver Nuggets have already clinched the conference, while Memphis Grizzlies, Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns are also in.
The Clippers and Golden State Warriors are both on 42 wins, while the Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves are just behind with 41, meaning they'll need to win their remaining games to stand a chance. It was always going to be a tough night for the Lakers, but one that James called the "toughest" yet.
"It’s one of the toughest games we’ve had this year," LeBron James said, via Dave McMenamin of ESPN. "Coming off the road trip and getting back late last night, after an overtime game … this was one of those scheduling conflicts in the season and definitely got the best of us tonight."
One positive for the Lakers is that James is back to his best, even though some are still stunned that he is even on the court. James returned early from a right-foot injury, one that needed season-ending surgery according to some medical professionals.
James scored 33 points against the Clippers after netting 37 against Utah Jazz the night before, proving that he can still perform even if there is still some soreness. His fitness will be crucial if they are to have any postseason success, providing they make it.
Anthony Davis also scored 17 points, but was once again dwarfed by Austin Reaves who outscored him for a second-straight game. It will need to be a real team effort if they are to squeeze into the play-offs, and even more so if they are faced with a tough play-in tournament.
