At this point, it seems the Los Angeles Lakers are left with no other choice but to remain stubborn about their chances to squeeze into the Play-In tournament. They are desperately trying to salvage a campaign that was filled with high hopes after the formation of the trio of LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook.

But with LBJ sitting out their game against the Denver Nuggets at home on Sunday night, the All-Star Big Three have only played a whopping 21 games together. The Lakers lost to the Nuggets, 129-118.

Davis put up a solid effort with 28 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists, while Westbrook chipped in 27 points, 10 boards, and seven dimes. But the Nuggets played better as a unit, despite also missing key players. After the game, AD got honest about not having enough floor time with LeBron and Westbrook and the Lakers' season-long roster struggles, per the report of ESPN.

“We didn't expect to only have 21 games together, but that's been all year. The times we were together, we looked good. That being said, we still have enough (players) to play a basketball game. We will continue to fight this way, give ourselves a chance and see what happens.”

Davis has missed the most games out of the Lakers' talented troika this season due to a laundry list of injuries. Still, upon his return, he and LeBron remained adamant that they can still turn the season around. After their defeat to the Nuggets, perhaps they need to be more pragmatic.

The Lakers will next face the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday.