In their first game after the All-Star break, the Lakers defeated the Clippers 125-122. The game opened with a personal 5-0 run by Clippers’ Brook Lopez, while Austin Reeves quickly matched it with five points for the Lakers. The Lakers surged ahead, hitting 80% from the field early on, with LeBron James contributing seven points.
As the first quarter progressed, the Lakers built a 12-point lead thanks to strong play from Luka Dončić, who hit multiple 3-pointers. The Clippers made a strong comeback led by Kawhi Leonard, who scored 21 points by halftime, bringing the score to 61-54 in favor of the Lakers.
The Lakers initially extended their lead but the Clippers turned a 15-point deficit into a 2-point lead with a 17-1 run. In the fourth quarter, the game remained close, with both teams trading leads. With 2:15 left, the Lakers led by three, and Dončić made two crucial free throws to secure the win.
Luka finished with 38 points, six rebounds, and 11 assists, while Reeves contributed 29 points. LeBron added 13 points and 11 assists. The Lakers are set to play the Boston Celtics next on Sunday at 3:30 p.m. PT.
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