Russell Westbrook, Stanley Johnson spark Lakers’ victory over Jazz
LA TimesLakers guard Russell Westbrook is congratulated by teammate LeBron James after scoring against the Jazz during the second half Monday at Crypto.com Arena. “It happened to be Gobert tonight,” Westbrook said, “but that could be anybody any other night.” Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell, who was held to 13 points, drives between Lakers defenders Avery Bradley and Talen Horton-Tucker. “LeBron’s a smart player,” Johnson said, crediting the Lakers star with seeing a matchup the team could exploit. It’s why that veneer of positivity briefly got pulled back Monday, the stench of the worst loss of the Lakers’ season still following the team into the game against the Jazz. Whether it was showy stuff such as Westbrook’s dunk, James’ repeated aggression or Johnson’s fearlessness, the Lakers grabbed a win and some good vibes for a team — and coach — that needed them.