The Los Angeles Lakers may have been shorthanded on Sunday versus the Houston Rockets, but they still fought really hard and even had a chance to win the contest. However, they ultimately lost in double overtime, 148-142, as they failed to defend their opponents late in the game and gave up easy baskets.

One bright spot for the Purple and Gold on the night is Julius Randle as he recorded season-highs of 29 points and 15 rebounds, to go along with six assists and one block. When asked how he was able to play as good as he did, he cited his aggressiveness and mindset entering the game as the keys to it. He also added, via Spectrum SportsNet, that he was relentless in attacking the basket which helped him get his groove.

“Just aggressive. Mentally, locked in, attacking…”

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This season, Julius Randle has been coming off the bench for the first time in his pro career. Despite the reports made that he is unhappy with his new role, Randle continues to play hard and gives his all night in and night out, proving further that he is one of the most important players in the Lakers' roster.

With Lonzo Ball and Brook Lopez still scheduled to miss some more games, coupled with Larry Nance Jr.'s inconsistencies, it could be Julius Randle's chance to earn more playing time. He definitely impressed on Sunday which may lead to Luke Walton and the rest of the Lakers coaching staff to consider making him a starter moving forward.