Spurs 116 vs 118 Lakers Summary, Stats, and Highlights | NBA
Luka Doncic returned from injury and delivered an outstanding performance against Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs in Los Angeles. The intense matchup went down to the final seconds, with the Lakers narrowly securing their fifth consecutive win.
Game Overview
The Lakers seemed to have control late in the game, leading by four points with only seconds remaining. Kelley Olynyk sank a two-point shot with 1.2 seconds left, closing the gap. Marcus Smart attempted a quick inbound pass to Rui Hachimura across the court, but he stepped on the baseline, turning the ball over to the Spurs.
Final Moments
Julian Champagnie was fouled on the inbound play, giving him a chance to tie the game. However, he missed the first free throw, and his second miss nearly went in on a tip attempt. The Lakers managed to hang on and seal the victory.
Key Performances
- Luka Doncic notched 13 assists and orchestrated the offense effectively without LeBron James or Austin Reaves.
- With just over two minutes left in the fourth quarter, Doncic hit the clutch shot that put the Lakers ahead for good.
- Wembanyama faced foul trouble early in the fourth quarter, opening up opportunities inside for Jaxson Hayes and his teammates.
- Stephon Castle kept San Antonio competitive, leading a key run at the end of the third that briefly gave the Spurs a 12-point advantage in the fourth.
"Luka had to spread it around because he wasn't going to be able to do it all on his own."
Turning Points
The momentum shifted when Wembanyama picked up his fifth foul, allowing the Lakers to regain control of the paint. Despite the Spurs’ rally, Los Angeles executed late and maintained composure under pressure.
Wembanyama struggled to find rhythm early and continued battling foul issues throughout the second half, limiting his overall impact on both ends.
Author’s Summary
This thrilling contest saw Luka Doncic lead a shorthanded Lakers squad past San Antonio, proving his clutch value as the team extended its winning streak to five games.