Luka Doncic put on a show for the ages as the Los Angeles Lakers edged out the Los Angeles Clippers in a thrilling 125-122 victory. Doncic, the Slovenian sensation, dazzled with 38 points, 11 assists, six rebounds, and three steals, while sinking eight three-pointers. In doing so, he surpassed a major milestone, notching his 10th game with at least 35 points and 10 assists for the Lakers, moving past the legendary Kobe Bryant for the third-most in franchise history.
Fresh off a four-game break due to a mild hamstring strain, Doncic wasted no time making his presence felt, pouring in 17 points in the first quarter alone, including four shots from beyond the arc. His performance was matched by Kawhi Leonard, who kept the Clippers in contention with 31 points, despite leaving the game with an ankle injury late in the fourth quarter.
The Lakers seemed to have the game in hand, pushing their lead to 15 in the second half. But the Clippers, resilient as ever, launched a 20-3 run to turn the tide. Yet, it was Doncic's brilliance in the final quarter, where he scored 12 points, that sealed the deal for the Lakers.
This game also showcased Doncic's chemistry with teammates Austin Reaves and LeBron James. Reaves contributed 29 points, while James posted a double-double with 13 points and 11 assists. Despite sharing the court for just the 11th time in 55 games, the trio's synergy was undeniable.
Doncic's achievement of surpassing Bryant's record is all the more impressive given his relatively short tenure with the Lakers. His return from the All-Star break was nothing short of triumphant, and he undoubtedly relished the win.
The victory propels the Lakers to 5th in the Western Conference with a 34-21 record, while the Clippers, now 9th at 27-29, will aim to bounce back against the Orlando Magic. Doncic's performance not only secured a crucial win but also solidified his place among the greats in Lakers history.