The Los Angeles Lakers’ charged effort to rally in the fourth quarter against the Spurs nearly went in vain. A costly mistake gave the Spurs a chance to tie the game. That mistake came from an unexpected direction, with Marcus Smart being called for an inbounds violation. It was relieving that the Spurs couldn’t capitalize. But the veteran guard felt the burden of his mistakes.

He did admit that in such cases, the officials hardly ever make that call. Yet, he didn’t want to use it as an excuse. Smart, understanding his experience in the league, knew he should have been more watchful.

“As a 12-year vet, I can’t make that mistake,” he said. The former Celtics guard is prepared for his Laker teammates to make fun of him. After all, it was a silly mistake that nearly wasted the Lakers’ improbable comeback. But he also made a bold admission. “I take full ownership of it. … It will never happen again,” he told the reporters in the locker room.

Smart didn’t make an error in catching the play. Where players would look for a quick inbound in hopes of getting to the line, he saw Rui Hachimura completely unmarked in the Spurs’ half. If successfully executed, that would have been a dagger. But Marcus Smart’s foot went over the line.

But aside from that mistake, Marcus Smart played an integral role in the victory. He gutted his way to 17 points, regularly getting to the charity stripe. Furthermore, his defensive intensity kept the Spurs’ starters quiet for most of the night. It was a scrappy game from both sides, with three San Antonio players fouling out in the end. Yet, no matter how the game went, the Lakers seem to be figuring out ways to stack wins.

The Lakers look like genuine threats in the West

Although it’s only been 9 games, the Lakers have faced a series of challenges. Luka Doncic has missed games. LeBron James is yet to make his debut. Tonight, Austin Reaves was out for a second straight game. Still, no matter how the combinations have changed, the Purple and Gold have managed to win seven of their nine games.

It’s not just a coincidence or them playing inferior competition. The offseason additions are beginning to showcase their importance to the team. Deandre Ayton was masterful in containing Victor Wembanyama on the boards tonight. His pressure on the glass and play above the rim are quietly beginning to improve.

Additionally, Jake LaRavia has solidified his place in the rotations. Not only a compact shooter, but LaRavia uses his 6’8” size and speed to supply as a tenacious defender. Imagine the team is going to get deeper once James, Reaves, and Gabe Vincent return from injury. A primary reason behind their success is figuring out their identity.

The Lakers don’t shoot many threes. Yet, no other team in the NBA is shooting higher than their 52% from the field. Additionally, the Lakers’ defense is organized this season. Opponents average just 14 points in transition. Such a system is hugely possible by having secure floor generals in both Doncic and Austin Reaves. LeBron James will serve as a third, another excellent decision-maker who could really bolster their play.

As the head coach, JJ Redick has done a fabulous job instilling key principles in this roster. And if this continues, they are bound to be one of the favorites for the title this season.