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Doncic’s Double-Double and James’ Road Return Lift Lakers Over Jazz in Nail-Biting Finish

Luka Doncic shoots at Utah Jazz' basket

Key Takeaways:

  • On Sunday night, Luka Doncic tallied 33 points and 11 rebounds as the Lakers overcame the Jazz 108-106 in Salt Lake City
  • LeBron James contributed 17 points, eight assists, and six rebounds in his first road game of the season
  • Lauri Markkanen powered a late Jazz rally with 12 of his 20 points in the fourth quarter, but a missed jumper at the horn sealed Utah’s defeat

Match Analysis

Sunday night in Salt Lake City saw the Los Angeles Lakers edge the Utah Jazz 108-106, with Luka Doncic delivering a standout performance of 33 points and 11 rebounds. LeBron James, returning to action on the road for the first time this campaign after missing training camp and the initial 14 games due to sciatica, provided a crucial 17 points, alongside eight assists and six rebounds over 34 minutes.

The Lakers (12-4) extended their winning streak to four games, maintaining relentless pressure throughout. LeBron, who registered 11 points and 12 assists during Tuesday’s home victory over the Jazz in the opening fixture of his 23rd NBA season, predominantly found success via fast breaks and powerful drives to the basket.

Crucial Moments and Player Contributions

Lauri Markkanen proved instrumental for Utah with 20 points, 12 of which came during a late surge in the fourth quarter. His three-pointer capped a decisive 17-5 run, narrowing the gap to 107-106. However, after Doncic split a pair of free throws, Keyonte George’s contested shot from the corner narrowly missed at the final buzzer, confirming the Lakers’ triumph.

Top ScorersPointsAssistsRebounds
Luka Doncic (LAL)33811
LeBron James (LAL)1786
Austin Reaves (LAL)22410
Rui Hachimura (LAL)1306
Keyonte George (UTAH)2785
Lauri Markkanen (UTAH)2027
TeamRecordNext Fixture
Los Angeles Lakers12-4Host Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday
Utah Jazz5-11Visit Golden State on Monday

Key Runs and Game Turning Points

Neither side built a lead greater than nine points until the latter stages. The Lakers pulled away late on a decisive 13-0 run, capped by Doncic’s three-pointer at 6:06 remaining, to move ahead 98-85. Prior to this, Los Angeles’ greatest buffer was at 67-58. The Jazz replied with a 16-2 sequence, capturing a 74-69 advantage midway through the third quarter.

Deandre Ayton saw limited action for Utah, registering two points in 13 minutes before departing with a knee bruise in the second period. Meanwhile, Maxi Kleber achieved his 1,000th career field goal with a vital dunk – his lone basket – that marked the Lakers’ last field goal to establish a 107-101 lead with 1:21 remaining.

Looking Ahead

The Los Angeles Lakers will welcome the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday, while the Utah Jazz travel to face the Golden State Warriors on Monday.


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