Anthony Davis scored 24 points, Austin Reaves added 23 and the Los Angeles Lakers cruised to a 117-96 victory over the Boston Celtics on Thursday night.

Boston will need to be vigilant that old habits vs. banged-up and lesser ball clubs don't make a winnable game into a struggle -- or worse, a loss.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James, center, shoots as Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis, left, and guard Derrick White defend during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) AP

In their best performance so far this season, the Lakers embarrassed the defending NBA champion Celtics in a 117-96 rout.

On Wednesday night, the Boston Celtics are playing the Clippers in Los Angeles. Before the game (on Tuesday), Jayson Tatum made an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel.

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