Luka Doncic, Lakers Rally Past Spurs for Fifth Straight Win
Luka Doncic delivered another strong performance with 35 points and 13 assists, narrowly missing a triple-double as the Los Angeles Lakers held off the San Antonio Spurs 118–116. The Lakers closed the game with a decisive 21–10 run, overcoming a late mistake to secure their fifth consecutive victory.
The game, marked by 66 fouls and 84 free throws, was played at Crypto.com Arena. Most pregame talk centered on Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama, whose rare size and versatility drew plenty of attention from Lakers players and coaches.
“All but one of the questions before the game were about Wembanyama,” Coach JJ Redick noted. “He’s one of those players who changes the way you have to play him on both ends of the floor.”
Nevertheless, the Lakers managed to contain Wembanyama effectively while thriving on Doncic’s all-around contribution. Returning after a rest day in Portland, Doncic also contributed nine rebounds, five steals, and two blocks. Though he shot just 9-for-27 from the field, his key plays down the stretch sealed the win.
“Our group is so connected right now; we were able to regroup, and there was no quitting,” Redick said. “It’s a connected group.”
With this result, the Lakers improved to 7–2 on the season and will soon begin a five-game road trip. Redick praised his star’s mindset and the team’s perseverance, emphasizing a single theme for the night.
“For Luka and for our team, the word of the day is resiliency,” Redick said.
Author’s Summary
Luka Doncic’s near triple-double and the Lakers’ collective grit powered a late surge past the Spurs, extending Los Angeles’ winning streak to five games.