The Los Angeles Lakers faced the Boston Celtics without LeBron James, Luka Dončić and Marcus Smart on Friday. It didn't go well.

BOSTON — The Celtics dominated the Lakers 126-105 on Friday at TD Garden, overwhelming the shorthanded visitors. The C’s won their fourth straight game to improve to 14-9. The Lakers dropped to 16-6 in a crowded West standings.

The Los Angeles Lakers have a long way to go before they can call themselves "legitimate title contenders." While the Lakers are off to a great start ot the sea

Luka Doncic is out for the Lakers' rivalry game against the Celtics due to personal reasons, marking his second consecutive absence. With LeBron James also doubtful and Marcus Smart out, the Lakers face a significant offensive challenge.

Playing basketball, whether it's a casual pickup game or in the National Basketball Association, hits different when you're 18 versus when you're 40 going on 41