The Toronto Raptors came out with a highly impressive performance in their first bubble game, defeating the Los Angeles Lakers, 107-92. Even Lakers superstar LeBron James could not help but send praises over Toronto's way. King James acknowledged how the defending champs exhibited their “championship DNA” on Saturday.
LeBron admitted that they went against — and were defeated — by a tremendous side, who came out with a total team effort during their head-to-head clash.
“Great team. No if's, and's or but's… well coached… Championship DNA,” via Ohm Youngmisuk of ESPN. “The media may not give them as much credit because Kawhi is gone but players know what type of team they are.”
James also went on to detail the strengths of the Toronto side, despite the departure of reigning Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard over the summer.
Lakers’ LeBron James on the Raptors: “That’s a great team. They won the championship for a reason. It wasn’t all solely because of Kawhi [Leonard].” pic.twitter.com/HCrB7QkrXu
— Ben Golliver (@BenGolliver) August 2, 2020
Raptors All-Star point guard Kyle Lowry has been one of the players that has stepped up his game this season in the absence of Leonard. He was indeed absolutely impressive on Saturday. The veteran guard put up an amazing 33-point, 14-rebound double-double, with five triples, six assists, and a steal. Lowry also hit a couple of clutch treys late in the fourth, providing some much-needed separation against the Lakers in what was initially a close game.
For his part, LeBron James logged a double-double himself with 20 points and 10 rebounds along with two 3-pointers, five assists, and a block. His effort was not enough, though, as the Raptors pulled away deep in the fourth. Toronto's performance on Saturday absolutely merits James' high praise.
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