The Los Angeles Lakers finally found their mojo in the fourth quarter. The Lakers fought their way back to win the match against the Oklahoma City Thunder in overtime 119-112. Frank Vogel’s men missed the injured players in Anthony Davis and Alex Caruso.

While Jared Dudley did not feature for the reigning champions he spoke his heart out about youngster Talen Horton-Tucker. The 20-year old was not that much well known earlier when he joined the Lakers. He was the 46th overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, but gradually he has blossomed into a very handy bench player for Frank Vogel. He was very impressive in the pre-season and recently he was fabulous against the Denver Nuggets. He scored a season high of 17 points. Dudley being the senior guy in the dressing room has noticed the growth in the youngster.

“Let’s just be honest, Talen Horton-Tucker has earned the right. He’s not only talented, but he has produced. He has produced at a high level and he brings something to this team that we don’t have. That’s someone who is attacking, finishing. LeBron obviously does that but this guy brings a little, he is 20 years old, a little more pop to it when it comes down to it. And his shot-making ability,” Dudley stated.

Horton-Tucker has improved a lot and there is no doubt about it. His impressive performance have meant that he has grown in stature among his teammates as well. Therefore he will be rewarded with longer stays on the court as the season progresses. It will be on the youngster to keep up the consistency.

The Lakers are just behind the Utah Jazz in the Western Conference and if they keep piling up wins they will soon catch them at the top. With a 19-6 record it is a matter of time for LeBron James and company to take over the Jazz. However, consistency and form will be of prime importance in this period also they have to see that none of the players get injured and stay out for a long time.