Lakers’ Back-to-Back Losses Spark Criticism of Late-Game Execution, LeBron James Faces Backlash…

The Los Angeles Lakers have found themselves under intense scrutiny after suffering back-to-back losses in late March 2025, with both defeats highlighting issues in the team’s late-game execution. On March 26, the Lakers narrowly defeated the Indiana Pacers with a last-second tip-in by LeBron James, but the very next day, they fell to the Chicago Bulls in dramatic fashion. The Bulls pulled off a stunning 119-117 victory, thanks to a miraculous half-court buzzer-beater by Josh Giddey, who also recorded a triple-double.

The loss to the Bulls has raised significant concerns over the Lakers’ ability to close out tight games. With just seconds remaining, the Lakers were leading by five points, but a series of missteps and defensive lapses allowed the Bulls to rally and take the game. LeBron James, in particular, has come under fire for his late-game decisions, including his inability to secure the win in those final moments. The Lakers star, who is typically known for clutch performances, has faced criticism for not asserting control in crucial situations.

Shannon Sharpe, a prominent sports analyst and former NFL star, was particularly vocal in his criticism of LeBron following the loss. On his show, Sharpe questioned James’ decision-making in the dying seconds, calling out his gamble on the final play. While James has built a career around performing under pressure, the recent stretch of late-game failures has led to a heated debate about his role in the Lakers’ struggles.

As the team battles to maintain its position in the playoff race, it is clear that these back-to-back defeats are a wake-up call for the Lakers. Their late-game execution will be critical moving forward if they hope to avoid further setbacks and contend for a championship. With high expectations surrounding the team, the Lakers’ upcoming matchups will be crucial in determining their ability to regain momentum and address their ongoing issues in close contests.