LeBron James on his 38th birthday led the Lakers to a victory

The Lakers defeated the Hawks on Friday night in Atlanta thanks to LeBron James' all-time performance on his birthday. James had one of his best games while wearing a Lakers outfit, pouring in 47 points, 10 rebounds, and 9 assists. LeBron played even though he only scored two points in the opening frame because he spent the majority of the final three quarters and, more especially, the second half, asleep. He also assisted the Lakers in breaking the pattern of their traditionally poor clutch play this season and pulling away late to win.

Thomas Bryant's personal season-best effort, in which he managed 19 points and 17 rebounds in 34 minutes, was overshadowed by his own performance. Dennis Schröder had 12 points and nine assists, and Russell Westbrook contributed 14 points, 11 assists, and 8 rebounds in 29 minutes off the bench.