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There was a closer to the ground when the Lakers faced the Magic, and it was not LeBron James.
Nikola Vucevic had 36 points, including eight consecutive in a crucial fourth quarter sequence, and Orlando defeated Los Angeles 130-117 on Saturday night, ending the Lakers' four-game winning streak.
James was on the bench for the entire fourth quarter as the Lakers began to line up a small roster to reduce their deficit by 21 points to just 10 with over four minutes remaining. Vucevic stopped the rally on the spot by getting a three-point game against Michael Beasley, followed by five points to push the advantage to 13 with just over two minutes to go.
"We have other guys who could do it, but it's a responsibility that I take myself to finish the matches, especially when I do it," Vucevic said. "I had a good game and wanted to continue, that's all."
Vucevic hit 15 of 23 shots, including 10 out of 14 in the second half. He had help from D.J. Augustin, who had 22 points and seven assists, and Evan Fournier, who scored 15. Terrence Ross had 13 points and Aaron Gordon and Jonathon Simmons scored 12 each for the Magic.
"When the teams downsize, they will not be able to protect (Vucevic) 1 against 1," said Magic coach Steve Clifford. "He can either get some good shots as he did tonight, or we can play double-team, where he's a great smuggler."
The Lakers earned 22 James points, 19 from Lance Stephenson and 17 from Brandon Ingram, but lost 15 points early in the second period and were never closer than 10 in the fourth quarter.
"I give credit to this group that was there," said James. "They continued to fight."
"I'm always happy not to give up guys," Lakers coach Luke Walton said. "If you're down or 20, an NBA game is never over. We gave ourselves a chance and, unfortunately, they hit a few shots that took the helm. "
James averaged 29.8 points in 55.1 percent shooting during the winning streak, but did not have much of a factor against magic.
Orlando opened the second half with Augustin-Fournier's back-to-back 3-pointers and a Vucevic dunk who pushed the lead to 70-55. The Lakers finally extended their defense, opening easy ways to the basket, and Augustin and Fournier took advantage.
The two headed unhindered towards the rim, feeding Vucevic, who had 16 points in the quarter, or getting easy breakaways for themselves. Ten of the next 11 magic baskets were layups and Orlando led 100-81 at the end of the third.
TIP-INS
Lakers: Lonzo Ball draws 51.3% (19 out of 37) in the 3-point range, but only 17.8% (five out of 28) in road games. … The Three Lakers Reserve doubled with 19 points for Stephenson. Josh Hart was 13 and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope scored 10.
Magic: Jonathon Isaac had four blocks in the first period, including two against James. He finished with five blocks and seven points. … The Magic and The Lakers have divided the series of seasons seven consecutive years. It was their first meeting this season.
RONDO OUT
Rajon Rondo will miss four to five weeks after surgery to repair a broken bone in his right hand. Rondo started just two games this season and averaged 8.5 points and 6.5 assists playing 25 minutes of a game. "Obviously, we miss him," Walton said. "You can smell around the locker room, but our group has been good. "
Carmelo is a laker?
James was asked about the possibility of Carmelo Anthony joining the Lakers line-up and said, "I have no idea, to be honest, it's not a question to ask me. post available for alignment, not a question for me. "
FOLLOWING
Lakers: Miami on Sunday night.
Magic: Welcome the New York Knicks Sunday night.
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