THE Los Angeles Lakers have missed out on a place in the NBA play-offs after suffering a seventh-straight defeat in losing to the Phoenix Suns.
The Lakers, again without the injured Lebron James, were beaten 121-110 by the Western Conference leaders.
It is just the fourth time in James’ 19-year career that he has failed to make the NBA post-season.
“We wanted to play our part in bringing success to Lakers basketball and we fell short,” said coach Frank Vogel.
“We’re extremely disappointed. Disappointed for our fanbase, disappointed for the [ownership], that gave us this opportunity.
“It’s not been due to a lack of effort. We have all put in the work. Guys stayed fighting right to the end.
“We brought integrity to the process we just fell short through a disjointed season. We’re all disappointed.”
The 17-time NBA champions sit 11th in the Western Conference, with teams from seventh to 10th in the Eastern Conference and Western Conference progressing to the play-ins.
Two teams from each division can then secure a place in the end-of-season play-offs via the play-ins route.
