At the halfway stage against Portland Trail Blazers, Los Angeles Lakers had their backs against the wall. They were obliterated by the home team by 45-13 in the second quarter and were in arrears by 25 points.

However, that’s when the veteran Patrick Beverly turned up and motivated his troops to help them turn the tables. And the Lakers did what was required. The visitors went on to win by 121-112 to register a come-from-behind on Sunday night.

Beverly scored only four points but he walked the talk as he had a +/- of +27 in 29 minutes to deliver the goods for his team. The Lakers veteran LeBron James top-scored with 37 points as the team bounced back in style.

“Told the guys, ‘Just turn our swag up,’” said Beverley. “Understand we’re fortunate to play a game that gives us stability to take care of our families, be able to live a lifestyle, a fortunate lifestyle that a lot of people dream about.

“So regardless of what’s going on, have fun with this s—. Stay swaggy. That was my message, and we came out and responded.”

The team’s head coach Darvin Ham was all praise on Patrick Beverly for helping the team in turning the tables when winning looked like a speck on the horizon.

“I think it’s inspiring, man,” Ham said of Beverley. “When you step out on this floor at this level, you have to feel like you’re one of the best … and believe it. And he’s been consistent in that regard, in terms of trying to provide a spark.

“We’ve brought him here to be a defensive agitator on behalf of the Lakers in a good manner. And he’s done that. And tonight, it was on full display, as well.”

Meanwhile, James scored 20 of his 37 points in the second half of play as he led from the front. The Lakers have won two matches in a row and they will look to build up the winning impetus.

The Lakers will next take on the LA Clippers on Tuesday night.