After third straight loss, Lakers trying to stop the tailspin

After third straight loss, Lakers trying to stop the tailspin
They’ve lost four straight road games, and their Western Conference lead over Dallas is now just three games. ‘We have no choice but to keep going,’ says Derek Fisher.

By Broderick Turner, Los Angeles Times

Reporting from Orlando - The Lakers are reeling.

And they know that.

They lost their third consecutive game, this time a physical, trash-talking, technical-filled defeat to the Orlando Magic on Sunday at Amway Arena.

The Lakers had not lost three consecutive games since they acquired Pau Gasol on Feb. 1, 2008.

They are finding that the road to winning back-to-back championships is filled with potholes.

They are 4-5 in their last nine games.

They have lost four straight road games, and their lead over the Dallas Mavericks for the best record in the Western Conference has been whittled down to three games.

"We have to keep believing in the ultimate goal," Derek Fisher said. "That's what helps you stay focused through adversity is realizing that you're still on the path to where you want to go.

"When you're popping that Champagne, these are the times that you remember. This is what brings the tears."

The Lakers just didn't look sharp against the Magic.

The Lakers had three players score in double figures, the Magic had five.

The Lakers didn't get a lot of help from their bench, with a combined 16 points. Read Full Story

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