Lakers hold on after Zion’s injury; Does Warriors flame out mean end of an era for Golden State?

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THE LOS ANGELES LAKERS

They’re baaaack. The Lakers slugged out a 110-106 win over the Pelicans to claim the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference. Los Angeles blew an 18-point lead but made its final 14 free throws — including six in the final 15 seconds — to hold on and earn a date with the defending champion Nuggets in the first round.

The Lakers have never lost a play-in game, and they have the usual suspects to thank for that. LeBron James narrowly missed out on a triple-double with 23 points, nine rebounds and nine assists, Anthony Davis had 20 points and 15 rebounds, and D’Angelo Russell added 21 points, including five 3-pointers. Crucially, Los Angeles only turned the ball over eight times and forced 13 turnovers.

On the other side, the game of a lifetime ended with the disappointment of a lifetime. After a game-tying floater with 3:19 left gave him 40 points in his first career postseason game, Zion Williamson grimaced and was subbed out seconds later with what the team later deemed “left leg soreness.” He’ll undergo further imaging today.

It’s unfortunate, but this is Williamson’s career in a nutshell. The signs of greatness are obvious. He’s a ridiculous athlete with absurd body control, touch around the rim, strength, size and explosiveness. He also can’t stay healthy, and his injuries come at the most inopportune times. His chance at a true legacy game ended with him in the locker room. Every score is breathtaking. Every wince makes…