Luka Doncic scored 35 points in the Los Angeles Lakers' narrow 118–116 win against Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday. Doncic also contributed 13 assists, nine rebounds, five steals, and two blocks, shooting 33.3% from the field. This performance helped the Lakers improve their record to 7-2.
Doncic's standout game marked another milestone in his remarkable early-season form, as he continues to drive the Lakers' offense in the absence of LeBron James and Austin Reaves. Fans applauded his clutch three-pointer late in the game and his strong presence on both offense and defense.
“Doncic hit a 25-foot step-back three-pointer to give the Lakers a 113–112 lead with just over 2:30 remaining.”
On the Spurs' side, seven players scored in double figures, including all five starters. Wembanyama finished with 19 points, eight rebounds, and three assists, but San Antonio fell to a 5-2 record.
The Lakers held a slim 60–59 lead at halftime, with Doncic scoring 22 first-half points. Wembanyama had seven points for the Spurs during the break. The Spurs surged in the third quarter, outscoring the Lakers 37–28 to take a 96–88 lead into the final period.
In the closing moments, Marcus Smart's turnover on an inbound play with just over a second remaining gave the Spurs a final chance, but the Lakers held on for victory.
“Smart turned the ball over on an inbound play with just over a second left, giving the Spurs a chance.”
Doncic’s all-around excellence and clutch plays carried the Lakers to a hard-fought win, underscoring his vital role in the team's success without key stars.