Spurs 116 vs 118 Lakers: Game Summary and Highlights
Luka Doncic returned from injury and delivered an impressive performance against Victor Wembenyama and the San Antonio Spurs in a nail-biting match for the Lakers. The Lakers appeared to have the victory secured, leading by four points with just seconds remaining.
Key Moments
- Kelley Olynyk scored a two-point basket with 1.2 seconds left, narrowing the gap.
- Marcus Smart inbounded quickly to Rui Hachimura across the court but stepped on the baseline, awarding possession back to San Antonio.
- Julian Champagnie was fouled on the inbound and had the chance to tie, but missed both free throws narrowly.
The Lakers secured their fifth consecutive win with this close finish.
Luka Doncic’s Impact
Luka shined in his passing, ending the night with 13 assists. When it came down to taking control, he hit a critical shot over two minutes from the end to put the Lakers ahead.
Spurs’ Adjustments and Challenges
- Victor Wembenyama struggled with foul trouble, picking up his 5th foul early in the 4th quarter, creating space for the Lakers inside.
- Stephon Castle made key contributions off the bench, leading a significant Spurs run late in the 3rd quarter.
- At one point, the Spurs led by 12 points in the fourth quarter, showing resilience despite missing LeBron James and Austin Reaves on the Lakers side.
Game Dynamics
Without LeBron or Reaves, Luka spread the playmaking duties but still carried the team's offense efficiently. Wembenyama’s impact was limited by foul trouble and a slow start, affecting San Antonio’s defensive presence.
“With a chance to take the lead, he put the ball in his hands and made the big money shot to put the Lakers ahead with just over 2:00 to go in the 4th.”
Author's summary: Luka Doncic’s strong return and crucial late shot propelled the Lakers to a narrow 118-116 victory over the Spurs, despite Wembenyama’s foul trouble and Spurs’ fourth-quarter rally.