Spurs 116 vs 118 Lakers: Game Summary and Highlights
Luka Doncic returned from injury and delivered a standout performance against Victor Wembenyama and the San Antonio Spurs in a close game that went down to the final seconds.
Key Moments
- The Lakers appeared to have the game secured, leading by 4 points with only a few seconds remaining.
- Kelley Olynyk made a two-point shot with 1.2 seconds left, narrowing the gap.
- Marcus Smart quickly inbounded the ball to Rui Hachimura on the opposite side of the court, but he stepped on the baseline during the inbound, resulting in the Spurs regaining possession.
- Julian Champagnie was fouled on the inbound and went to the free-throw line with a chance to tie the game, but missed both shots, including a second attempt that nearly went in.
- The Lakers secured their fifth consecutive win after this tense finish.
Luka Doncic’s Impact
Doncic had an excellent game distributing the ball, finishing with 13 assists. When it was time to take control, he took the clutch shot that put the Lakers ahead with just over two minutes left in the fourth quarter.
Turning Points
- Wembenyama picked up his fifth foul early in the fourth quarter, opening space in the paint for players like Hayes on the Spurs.
- Stephon Castle stepped up impressively both with Wembenyama on and off the bench, playing a major part in a Spurs run at the end of the third quarter.
- The Spurs even led by 12 points early in the fourth quarter during their comeback attempt.
- Without LeBron James or Austin Reaves, Doncic had to share playmaking duties and could not do it all alone.
- Wembenyama struggled early and faced foul trouble in the second half.
"Luka had a great night passing the ball, but 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."
"The Lakers hung on for their fifth straight victory."
Despite a tough challenge from the Spurs, the Lakers held on for the win in a thrilling finish.
Author’s Summary
Luka Doncic’s strong return and clutch plays helped the Lakers edge the Spurs in a tightly contested game that featured key fouls, late-game drama, and standout contributions on both sides.