Lakers Hang On Late to Beat Spurs
The Lakers extended their winning streak to five games with a hard-fought 118-117 victory over the Spurs, rallying late in the fourth quarter to secure the win.
Game Summary
Los Angeles struggled early, managing only a three-pointer from Luka Dončić as they fell behind by seven points. Despite shooting just 14% from three-point range while San Antonio hit 50%, the Lakers gradually closed the gap to within two points. Julian Champagnie led the Spurs with nine points.
Defensively, the Lakers contained Victor Wembanyama well, who did not score in the first quarter. Luka Dončić dominated the period, being the only Laker aside from Dalton Knecht to score more than two points. At the end of the first, Los Angeles trailed by three.
Key Moments and Players
- Luka Dončić finished with a stellar stat line: 35 points, nine rebounds, 13 assists, five steals, and two blocks.
- Rui Hachimura contributed 15 points, shooting 5-9 from the field.
- Deandre Ayton added 22 points, 10 rebounds, and two blocks.
Late in the fourth, a costly turnover by Marcus Smart and a foul on Jake LaRavia nearly derailed the Lakers’ comeback. However, they managed to hold on and stave off the Spurs' comeback attempt.
"It wasn’t easy, but the Lakers rallied back in the fourth to beat the Spurs 118-117."
Notable Plays
Bronny James entered in the second quarter and made an immediate impact by sinking his first shot attempt, a jumper. Wembanyama opened the second period scoring off the glass, keeping the game tightly contested.
At the 6:16 mark in the first quarter, the Lakers were down six points but steadily brought the game back in their favor.
Author’s Summary
The Lakers showcased resilience and clutch execution, overcoming early difficulties and a strong Spurs challenge to keep their winning streak alive.