Anthony Davis, LeBron James decide to return to game before Darvin Ham asked to save Lakers against Wizards

Anthony Davis candidly revealed after the game that neither he nor James hesitated to return to the court, emphasizing their commitment to getting the job done and teaching the young players a valuable lesson about readiness and accountability. This impromptu decision underscored the leadership and competitive spirit of both players, as they recognized the gravity of the situation and took immediate action to rectify it.

With just 17.1 seconds left on the clock, James and Davis made an unprecedented move by subbing themselves back into the game without consulting head coach Darvin Ham. Their decision to re-enter the game was fueled by a determination to ensure the Lakers secured the win, despite the risk of potential injury or fatigue.

LeBron James echoed Davis' sentiments, stressing the importance of learning from experiences and seizing opportunities to lead by example. By re-entering the game in a critical moment, James and Davis demonstrated their unwavering dedication to the team's success and set a standard of excellence for their teammates to follow.

Despite the late-game scare, the Lakers ultimately emerged victorious, thanks in large part to Davis' stellar performance, which included a monstrous double-double with 35 points and 18 rebounds. LeBron James also contributed significantly with 25 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple facets.

The win over the Wizards marked another impressive victory for the Lakers, who have been playing their best basketball of the season in recent weeks. With a record of 8-1 in their last nine games, the Lakers are building momentum heading into the postseason and solidifying their position as a formidable contender in the Western Conference.

As they prepare for the final stretch of the regular season and a potential playoff berth, the Lakers can take pride in their resilience and collective determination to overcome adversity, exemplified by the bold decision of James and Davis to return to the game and secure the win against the Wizards.

Darvin Ham Opens Up On Lakers Blowing Lead Without LeBron James And Anthony Davis

After witnessing the Los Angeles Lakers blow a 13-point lead in the closing stages of their game against the Washington Wizards, head coach Darvin Ham didn't mince words when addressing his team's performance. He emphasized the importance of approaching every minute on the court with intensity and purpose, rejecting the notion of "garbage time" and urging his players to give their all regardless of the game situation.

"I hate the term garbage time like you playing in the NBA, there's only so many spots and you get a chance to play even if it's the last 50 seconds, you go hard or stay home pretty much."

"It's like you're trying to establish yourself and you never know who's watching... I've been a part of a lot of teams both as a player and a coach where someone saw the way someone finished the game when it was maybe out of hand but they still went out there like it's a tie ball game and they put their best foot forward every single possession."

"You just got to have that mindset mindset that nothing is given nothing is given and everything is earned." (0:52)

Ham's message underscored the competitive nature of the NBA and the significance of making the most of every opportunity, no matter how limited. He stressed that in a league where roster spots are limited and competition is fierce, players must seize every moment to showcase their abilities and prove their worth.

Drawing from his own experiences as both a player and a coach, Ham highlighted the impact that individual effort and performance can have on one's career trajectory. He emphasized the value of maintaining a relentless mindset and approaching each possession with determination and focus, regardless of the score.

In his candid remarks, Ham reminded his team that nothing in the NBA is guaranteed and that success must be earned through hard work and dedication. He challenged his players to adopt a mindset of accountability and resilience, emphasizing that every opportunity to compete is an opportunity to make a lasting impression.

The Lakers' blown lead served as a valuable learning experience for the team, highlighting the importance of maintaining composure and executing effectively down the stretch. Ham's message resonated with his players, serving as a reminder of the competitive nature of the league and the need to consistently perform at a high level.

As the Lakers continue their push for a playoff berth, Ham's words will likely serve as a motivating force, driving the team to approach each game with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. By embracing Ham's philosophy of relentless effort and unwavering focus, the Lakers will be better equipped to navigate the challenges that lie ahead and achieve success in the postseason.