Doncic, James and Reaves Power Lakers Past Clippers in Crucial Late-Season Test

For only the 11th time this season, the Los Angeles Lakers had Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves sharing the court together, and their combined presence proved decisive in a 125-122 win over the Clippers at Crypto.com Arena on Friday. The trio, hampered by injuries and missed games throughout the season, showcased the potential of a fully healthy core as the Lakers aim to build late-season momentum.

Doncic led the way with 38 points, 11 assists, and six rebounds, combining skill and intensity with trash talk against Clippers’ Kris Dunn. Reaves contributed 29 points on efficient nine-for-15 shooting, added six rebounds, and made a pivotal defensive play late by drawing a charging foul on Bennedict Mathurin, limiting the Clippers’ scoring threat. James recorded a double-double with 13 points and 11 assists despite battling a sore left knee and a migraine, marking his fifth consecutive game with 10 or more assists.

Additional contributions came from Marcus Smart, who scored all seven of his points in the fourth quarter while playing tenacious defense, and Deandre Ayton, who added 13 points and seven rebounds, including a dunk off a James lob that energized the team late. Lakers coach JJ Redick highlighted Reaves’ charge against Mathurin as a potential game-deciding play, showcasing the team’s defensive discipline in crunch time.

Lakers Build Late-Season Chemistry Despite Clippers’ Pressure and Kawhi Leonard’s Exit

Despite Kawhi Leonard leaving the game with ankle soreness after scoring 31 points, the Clippers remained competitive, keeping pressure on the Lakers in the final minutes. The game’s closing sequence was tense, with James throwing a risky cross-court pass that Nicolas Batum intercepted but failed to convert, allowing James to grab the rebound and seal the victory.

For the Lakers, this win marked more than a single victory; it was an opportunity to strengthen chemistry among their key players. James emphasized the importance of every minute on the floor together, noting the potential impact on future games, including a matchup against the Celtics. Doncic, returning from a hamstring issue and limited All-Star game action, played nearly 38 minutes, confirming his readiness for the season’s final stretch.

The game also reflected Doncic’s competitive edge, including his spirited responses to on-court trash talk, demonstrating focus and confidence while leading his team to a hard-fought win. With the Lakers’ core finally healthy, the team hopes this glimpse of cohesion will translate into sustained success down the stretch.