This Day In Lakers History: Nick Van Exel, Elden Campbell & Cedric Ceballos Combine For 90 Points In Win Over Celtics
Cedric Ceballos, Lakers

The 1990s were a transition period for the Los Angeles Lakers as they moved on from the ‘Showtime’ era and searched for the next set of franchise players to lead them to the promise land.

Entering the 1994-95 season, the Lakers roster was assembled with players both on the rise and decline, mixing in two eras. Head coach Del Harris was a recognized presence around the NBA, with Eddie Jones and Nick Van Exel leading his backcourt.

At the same time, a frontline of Cedric Ceballos, Elden Campbell, and Vlade Divac was rather physical and often imposed their will on their opponents.

On Jan. 20, 1995, the Lakers were on the road playing long-time rival, the Boston Celtics. Whether during the championship eras or a transition, these two teams always brought the competitive juices when facing one another.

The clash at the Boston Garden started off in favor of the Lakers, as they held a 30-27 lead after the first quarter. L.A. extended that to a 14-point lead at halftime. The Celtics dominated the third quarter, to set the stage for a close game down the stretch.

The Lakers were able to hold on for a 120-118 win behind a dominant performance from the starting lineup, with three of the five starters combining for a total of 90 points.

Van Exel led the charge with 29 points, 10 assists and six rebounds, facilitating precisely on a night when his shots weren’t consistently dropping. Perhaps the X-factor in the game was the play of Campbell and Ceballos, as their presence in the paint helped solidify the win.

Ceballos scored a team-high 31 points on 11-for-16 shooting, to go along with seven rebounds, two assists and a steal. Campbell had 30 points, nine rebounds and two blocks.

While the franchise was in this transition phase, before the days of Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal, they were still able to put quality performances on the court on the way to a 48-34 record that season.

LeBron James asked Cedric Ceballos for permission to wear 23 with Lakers

While that era of Lakers basketball largely goes unremembered, one person who respects it is LeBron James as when he joined the organization, he called Ceballos to ask his permission to wear No. 23.

Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!

You May Also Like

LeBron James ‘Loves’ Who Lakers Have In Locker Room Ahead Of Trade Deadline

The Los Angeles Lakers are piecing things together at a fascinating time for the entire organization…

Lakers Opinion: 2018-2022 and the Russell Westbrook Problem

Coming off another poor season in the 2017-18 season, the Los Angeles…

Lakers News: Pau Gasol Opens Up About Feelings After Vetoed Chris Paul Trade

Back in 2011, there was almost a blockbuster trade that would have changed so much about the Los Angeles Lakers…

Lakers News: Anthony Davis Explains His Role On Defense

It is no secret how valuable Anthony Davis is on the defensive end for the Los Angeles Lakers…