Clutch Performance! Castleton Scores Team-High Points and Rebounds to Help Lakers End Losing Streak

On July 18, in the NBA Summer League, the Lakers narrowly defeated the Hawks 87-86 to end their five-game losing streak, while also handing the Hawks their third consecutive loss. In this game, the Hawks’ No.1 pick, Lissaxie, and the Lakers’ No.17 pick, Knect, were absent. The Lakers quickly found their rhythm at the start of the game, launching a 12-2 scoring run. However, the Hawks retaliated swiftly, closing the gap by hitting successive three-pointers. Before halftime, the Lakers pushed again, with Bronny nailing a crucial three-pointer that gave his team a slight lead going into the second half. After the break, the Hawks maintained their offensive pressure, once leading an 11-0 scoring surge to take the lead. Nevertheless, the Lakers didn’t give up. Hinson stepped up in the critical moments, hitting three consecutive three-pointers to stabilize the game for his team. In the final quarter, the Lakers exploded. Hinson and Kuzeh continued to hit three-pointers, and Bronny added to their lead, allowing the Lakers to successfully regain the lead late in the game. In the decisive moments, Castleton became the Lakers’ key player, making crucial shots that secured the victory for the team. Over 24 minutes and 18 seconds as a starter, Castleton was efficient with 8 out of 9 shots made, one free throw, scoring a team-high 17 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 assists. He also had 2 steals, 5 turnovers, and 2 fouls, with a +/- rating of -9. It was Castleton who stood up in the crucial moments of the fourth quarter to help the team. Notably, in the previous five games, Castleton performed well, being one of the few Lakers players to maintain consistent play.