Part 2/7:
The Lakers faced off against the Trail Blazers, securing a much-needed win that saw them improve to a tie for the eighth seed in the Western Conference. Despite LeBron James’s surprising absence—having previously expressed a desire to play all 82 games—Charles reflects on how the team adapted without their star player. The game signifies a pivotal moment for the Lakers as they prepare for tougher competition, including matchups against the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Memphis Grizzlies. The stakes are high, and the upcoming challenges will test the resilience and cohesion of the team.