But Lakers coach JJ Redick, visibly upset while speaking to reporters after the game, wasn't willing to use injuries as an excuse. "I don't think being shorthanded is an excuse fo

Brooklyn entered the game on a seven-game losing streak. The Lakers entered having won 20 of 25 and were still upset after their Boston loss. Even without half their rotation, the Lakers had weathered being shorthanded during various parts of January and February as they forged a resilient identity they’ve become proud of.

The Los Angeles Lakers were thoroughly played by the defending NBA champion Boston Celtics on Saturday and lost by a final score of 111-101. They trailed by as many as 22 points in the second half, and although they came to within four points in the fourth quarter, it never really felt like a comeback win was very likely.