Day: March 9, 2024

The Los Angeles Lakers picked up a big win without LeBron James when they defeated the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday. D’Angelo Russell was a big part of the Lakers getting that win with 44 points. Russell had 21 fourth-quarter points, including the game-winner with 5.9 seconds to play.

Following the game, Russell said he welcomes the pressure. The Lakers guard said everything he’s been through has made him confident he’ll come through when it matters most.

“On the floor, I’ve always felt like I was capable of doing things, [and] getting hot makes it a little more exciting,” Russell said. “Off the floor, obviously you all know what I’ve been through. Public humiliation has done nothing but mold me into the killer that you all see today. I never lack confidence. I never fear confrontation. I want all the smoke. … I just feel confident in what I bring to the basketball game, so whatever room I walk in, I’m confident.”

Rudy Gobert fouled out of the Minnesota Timberwolves overtime loss at the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday night. When he was called for his sixth foul, Gobert flashed the “money” sign at the officials as he headed to the bench. The Wolves center was called for a technical foul, which helped the Cavs send the game to the extra period.

Following the game, Gobert didn’t let up in his criticism of the way sports betting may be influencing officials.

“I made some mistakes. I airballed a dunk. Mistakes happen. Referees make mistakes, too,” Gobert said. “But sometimes I think it’s more than mistakes. I think everyone that’s in this league knows. I think it’s got to get better.”

Gobert added that he’s willing to be the “bad guy again that speaks what I think is the truth.” He added that he thinks gambling is hurting the NBA.

“I think it’s hurting our game. I know the betting and all that is becoming bigger and bigger, but it shouldn’t feel that way,” Gobert said.