Spurs 116 vs 118 Lakers Summary
Luka Doncic returned from injury and delivered an impressive performance against Victor Wembenyama and the San Antonio Spurs in a closely contested game in Los Angeles. The Lakers appeared to have secured the win, leading by 4 points in the final seconds.
Kelley Olynyk made a two-point shot with 1.2 seconds remaining. Marcus Smart quickly inbounded to Rui Hachimura on the opposite side, but stepped on the baseline during the inbound, giving the Spurs possession.
“Julian Champagnie was fouled on the inbound and went to the line with a chance to tie the game, but missed the first free throw, and his second miss was nearly tapped in.”
The Lakers held on for their fifth consecutive victory. Luka excelled in distributing the ball and, with an opportunity to take the lead, made a critical shot to put the Lakers ahead with just over two minutes left in the fourth quarter.
The momentum shifted when Wembenyama picked up his fifth foul early in the fourth quarter, opening space for the Spurs’ Hayes and teammates to operate inside. Stephon Castle stepped up during Wemby’s time off the bench, leading a significant run that helped the Spurs take a 12-point lead in the fourth.
Without LeBron James or Austin Reaves, Luka had to involve his teammates more, finishing with 13 assists. His assist to Hachimura was a highlight of the night. Wembenyama struggled early and dealt with foul trouble in the second half.
Key Moments
- Lakers led by 4 points with seconds left before Olynyk's shot.
- Spurs regained possession from an inbound error.
- Champagnie's missed free throws kept Lakers ahead.
- Luka took over late, making the big shot to lead Lakers.
- Wembenyama’s foul trouble shifted game momentum.
Author's Summary
Luka Doncic’s return fueled a thrilling Lakers victory as key plays, foul trouble, and clutch moments shaped a tight contest against the Spurs.