Luka Doncic Leads Lakers to Close Victory Over Spurs
The Los Angeles Lakers rallied from a nine-point deficit midway through the fourth quarter, closing the game on a 21–10 run to narrowly defeat the San Antonio Spurs 118–116. This win marks the Lakers' fifth consecutive victory.
Doncic's Stellar Performance
Luka Doncic was the standout player with 35 points, 13 assists, nine rebounds, and five steals. He scored eight points in the fourth quarter, including a crucial go-ahead three-pointer with 2:31 remaining.
Team Contributions
- Deandre Ayton contributed 22 points and 10 rebounds for the Lakers.
- Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 19 points and eight rebounds before fouling out with 1:39 left.
- Stephon Castle and Jeremy Sochan each added 16 points as the Spurs endured their second consecutive loss after a 5–0 season start.
Key Moments in the Final Seconds
San Antonio still had a chance to steal the win in the final seconds after Marcus Smart committed an inbound violation following Kelly Olynyk’s putback with 1.2 seconds remaining.
Justin Champagnie drew a foul from Jake LaRavia during an attempt to tip in the Spurs’ inbound pass but missed his first free throw, and the second shot was also not converted before the buzzer sounded.
Defensive Intensity and Foul Trouble
Despite shooting only 9-for-27, Doncic’s playmaking and clutch scoring were decisive in a foul-heavy game that saw both Harrison Barnes and Jeremy Sochan fouling out in the fourth quarter. Late in the game, Los Angeles held the Spurs scoreless for nearly four and a half minutes, shifting momentum firmly in their favor.
Author's summary: Luka Doncic’s all-around excellence and a late-game surge secured a thrilling 118–116 Lakers victory over the Spurs, extending their winning streak to five games.