Sluggish Lakers Defeated by Short-Handed Hawks, Ending Winning Streak
Luka Doncic scored 22 points, provided 11 assists, and grabbed five rebounds in 27 minutes, but the Lakers fell 122-102 to an Atlanta Hawks team missing four starters.
Game Overview
Lakers coach JJ Redick emphasized before the game the importance of not underestimating the short-handed Hawks, who were without nine key players, including four starters. Despite this warning, the Lakers failed to bring the necessary energy from the start.
“Just not a lot to like [on Saturday night],” Redick said.
The game quickly revealed the Lakers’ lack of focus, leading to their first road loss of the season and snapping their five-game winning streak. The Lakers dropped to 7-3 overall and 4-1 away from Crypto.com Arena.
Player Performances
- Luka Doncic: Led the team with 22 points (4-of-10 from three-point range), 11 assists, and five rebounds in 27 minutes, but also committed five turnovers out of the team's total 20.
- Marcus Smart: Contributed five points, two assists, and two turnovers in 21 minutes.
Neither Doncic nor Smart spoke to reporters following the loss.
Summary
The Lakers’ poor energy and turnover issues against a depleted Hawks squad ended their impressive winning streak and highlighted areas needing improvement.
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