Luka Doncic Shines on His Birthday in Lakers' Victory over Clippers

LOS ANGELES – On his 26th birthday, Luka Doncic dazzled with 31 points, while LeBron James contributed a hefty 28 points and 13 rebounds, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to their fifth consecutive win with a 106-102 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday night.

Despite missing two starters due to injuries and playing the second game of a back-to-back series at home, the Lakers overcame their city rivals through resolute defense and Doncic’s dynamic play. Securing their 11th win in their last 13 games, the Lakers held strong, particularly in the tense fourth quarter where Doncic scored 10 points.

For the Clippers, Ivica Zubac delivered a standout performance with a season-high 27 points and 16 rebounds. However, the team has now dropped four of their five games post-All-Star break. Kawhi Leonard chipped in 21 points, while James Harden had a tough night, scoring 18 points with a dismal 5-for-22 shooting and only hitting 1 out of 10 three-point attempts.

Following a challenging shooting stretch through three quarters, Doncic hit back-to-back three-pointers midway through the fourth, expanding the Lakers’ lead to 10 points.

Takeaways
Clippers: The team was hampered by 18 turnovers in their first game back in Los Angeles since February 12. Despite Zubac’s efforts against the Lakers’ small frontcourt, it wasn’t enough to clinch the win.

Lakers: They delivered an admirable performance despite limited rest and a thinned-out roster. Austin Reaves exited the game early due to calf soreness, and Rui Hachimura missed the game with a left knee strain from Thursday. Coach JJ Redick expressed “optimism” that Hachimura’s injury isn’t serious.

Key Moment
With only a four-point cushion, Doncic assisted James for a crucial layup with 2:14 remaining. After Harden missed two open three-point tries, Doncic set up Jaxson Hayes for a dunk, solidifying a 106-98 advantage.

Key Stat
Doncic is sixth on the list of most NBA points scored before turning 26, with a total of 12,205. While James holds the top spot with 16,081, Doncic trails just 10 points behind Kobe Bryant, who is in fifth place with 12,215 points.

Up Next
Both teams will face off again on Sunday night.