Lakers-Celtics recap: 4th quarter, final stand helps Lakers survive big night from Celtics wing duo

The Los Angeles Lakers needed a monster 4th quarter and also a final defensive stand on the last possession of the game to survive what was a great game from Boston’s talented young wing tandem of Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum. But after Kemba Walker saw his potential game-winning attempt go awry, the Lakers were able to stop their losing streak at two, 96-95.

The Lakers were down by seven going into the 4th quarter and LeBron James hit a pair of late 3-pointers to help Anthony Davis, who had a huge night with 27 points and 14 rebounds, to help the Lakers escape a combined 58 points from Boston’s duo of Brown and Tatum.

 Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

We can’t ignore the implications of Frank Vogel turning to second-year guard Talen Horton-Tucker in a nationally televised game against one of the most athletic teams in the league. But while Horton-Tucker’s 23 minutes and inclusion in a nine-man rotation for the Lakers against Boston is notable, what is more important to consider is that Vogel is still getting to know his squad.

Markieff Morris and Wesley Matthews are seasoned playoff performers, with Morris having already proven his worth as a piece on a title team last season. But Horton-Tucker is relatively inexperienced and has basically no big game experience. Vogel’s choice tonight may not have been the best move for them to win this specific game, but Saturday was an opportunity to give THT important minutes in a game under the spotlight. Considering we haven’t even gotten to February, Vogel’s use of this time is exactly what the Lakers should be doing right now.