LeBron James addressed Friday’s 105-101 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks at Crypto.com Arena, highlighting a late turnover that proved costly. “For me, I turned the ball over again… Giannis did agree. He did that. I mean, he made a great play by getting his arms, tipping it from behind, but can’t turn the ball over obviously,” he said.
James acknowledged the Lakers’ strong second-half performance but noted the difference came down to key plays by Milwaukee. “We played good ball in the second half… the first half we kind of got out of the road trip out of us. They made some plays, big three by Turner by our bench. Obviously, the free throws down the stretch from KP,” he said.
On his individual performance after missing the first 14 games and a recent absence, James emphasized preparation and consistency. “Every day has its own challenge… try to put the work in and prepare myself for whatever that day calls for… got a lot of rest… able to sleep a lot last night… get a good workout in before shoot around,” he said.
The Lakers star reflected on facing Giannis Antetokounmpo, noting the matchup remains a highlight despite the age gap. “It’s always great to go against some of the greats… if it’s Giannis, Steph, KD, James, Russ… it’s always an honor and a pleasure to go against some great players,” James said.
James also touched on the team’s early-game struggles and their effect on rhythm. “We didn’t get to a lot of our sets with the precision we’ve been playing with… a lot of our shots were short in the first half… defensive miscues… more reaction, which allowed them to go up nine at halftime,” he said.
Regarding officiating, James did not attribute the outcome to calls. “No, I don’t know,” he said when asked if frustration affected the team’s rhythm.
Despite James’ 26 points, 10 assists, and nine rebounds, and Luka Doncic’s 24 points and nine assists, the Lakers fell short as Milwaukee rallied behind Giannis’ defensive impact and Kevin Porter Jr.’s clutch free throws. The Bucks overcame a brief Lakers lead during a 17-4 fourth-quarter run.
Los Angeles struggled without key contributors Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura, who may return next week, dropping their record to 23-13. Milwaukee improved to 17-21 and will face Denver on Sunday.
