It was wholly satisfying to see the Lakers steal a game they didn't deserve to win against the Pacers on Thursday, and equally disappointing to watch them lose a big lead in the second half Saturday in New Orleans, dropping the final game of the five game swing to the Pelicans, 131-126.

The Lakers had a double digit lead in the second half, but sloppy defense and an anemic fourth quarter offense (common themes throughout the year) were their undoing. Darvin Ham will get some heat for not changing things up enough against Brandon Ingram, who dominated quarters 2-4 (Rui Hachimura, for example, didn't play in the fourth), but it's reasonable to ask why Anthony Davis didn't pick up that assignment. And if he didn't, why didn't he find a way to get more done offensively in a quarter where the Lakers scored just 20 points?

It was a reminder of games earlier in the season where Davis was statistically dominant (34 points, 14 rebounds, two blocks) but quiet in the most important moments of the game.

With the loss, the Lakers miss a golden opportunity to keep the positive momentum going, and more importantly catch a team they're chasing in the standings.

A huge missed opportunity, leading into a massive week. So much more to talk about going forward, from Kyrie Irving, the trade deadline more broadly, LeBron James passing Kareem -- no matter what happens, it's going to be a very, very interesting week for Lakers fans.

HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky

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