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Lakers Edge Spurs 118-116 After Dramatic Late Twist, Doncic Stars with 35 Points

Luka Doncic guarding Victor Wembanyama

Key Takeaways:

  • Luka Doncic recorded 35 points, 13 assists, nine rebounds, and five steals as the Lakers secured their fifth consecutive win
  • Los Angeles ended the contest on a 21-10 run, overturning a nine-point deficit in the fourth quarter
  • The Spurs’ Julian Champagnie missed crucial free throws in the final second as Victor Wembanyama was fouled out with 1:39 left

Late Drama as Lakers Clinch Narrow Win

The Los Angeles Lakers mounted a impressive comeback in the fourth quarter to defeat the San Antonio Spurs 118-116 on Wednesday night, extending their winning streak to five matches. Despite a tense finale and a last-gasp opportunity for the Spurs, Los Angeles managed to hold on for victory at home.

Game Analysis: Fourth Quarter Surge Proves Decisive

Trailing 106-97 with just over seven minutes to play, the Lakers turned the tide by limiting San Antonio to no field goals for nearly four and a half minutes. This defensive effort opened the door for the hosts to close the game on a decisive 21-10 run.

With 2:31 remaining, Luka Doncic drilled a go-ahead three-pointer as part of his eight points in the period, giving Los Angeles a 113-112 advantage. Shortly after, Victor Wembanyama fouled out on an offensive charge drawn by Rui Hachimura, further weakening the Spurs’ position.

Final Seconds: Missed Chances for San Antonio

Despite Kelly Olynyk’s putback layup narrowing the deficit to two points with 1.2 seconds left, an inbound violation by Marcus Smart granted San Antonio one final chance. Julian Champagnie drew a foul from Jake LaRavia whilst attempting to tip in the inbound pass, but he missed the first free throw, and a frantic attempt to tip in the second shot at the buzzer failed to force overtime.

Individual Performances and Team Stats

Although Luka Doncic finished with 35 points, 13 assists, nine rebounds, and five steals, he shot 9-for-27 from the field. Deandre Ayton contributed 22 points and 10 rebounds for the Lakers, supporting their remarkable comeback. The match was marred by frequent fouls; Victor Wembanyama (19 points, eight rebounds), Harrison Barnes, and Jeremy Sochan (16 points) all fouled out in the fourth quarter for the Spurs. Stephon Castle also finished with 16 points.

Los Angeles played without Austin Reaves, who missed his second consecutive game with a hamstring injury. However, Doncic made his return after sitting out the team’s previous victory at Portland on Monday.

Looking Ahead

San Antonio are set to host Houston on Friday. The Lakers travel to Atlanta on Saturday as they seek to maintain their impressive form.


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