Los Angeles Lakers backup forward Lance Stephenson suffered a toe sprain during the second half of the team's 125-119 win against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Lance Stephenson is out for the rest of the game with what is being called a toe sprain. #Lakers
— Ryan Ward (@RyanWardLA) February 28, 2019
It was later revealed that x-rays were negative and Lance will be listed as day-to-day. He isn't expected to miss a significant time though.
Stephenson was instrumental in the Lakers' victory, putting up nine points, five rebounds, and three assists in 21 minutes. His energy off the bench was contagious as well, as the rest of the team seemed to have responded with a lot of urgency in this game.
For most of the season, Stephenson's role with the Lakers has been inconsistent. In a few stretches he will play at least 20 minutes, then won't play more than 10 for a few games. As Los Angeles make a final push for the playoffs, it is highly important for Lance to find consistent playing time, as he can be productive when he's expected to be.
With the win against the Pelicans, the Lakers are now just three games behind both the Los Angeles Clippers and the San Antonio Spurs for the seventh and eighth spot in the Western Conference. However, in order for them to pull off a successful comeback, they will need to be more consistent on both ends of the floor.
It will be easier said than done, as four of their next six games will be against playoff teams, beginning with a showdown against Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday.
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