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 tightly contested game. The Lakers appeared poised to win, leading by four points in the final seconds.
Kelley Olynyk scored a two-point basket with 1.2 seconds remaining. On the inbound, Marcus Smart quickly passed to Rui Hachimura, but he stepped on the baseline, giving possession back to San Antonio. Julian Champagnie was fouled on the inbound and had a chance to tie the game at the free-throw line. However, he missed both shots, the second almost being tipped in, allowing the Lakers to secure their fifth consecutive win.
Key Moments and Performances
- Luka shone in playmaking, finishing with 13 assists and making 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 Hayes and the Spurs inside.
- Stephon Castle stepped up for the Spurs during a significant run late in the third quarter, helping San Antonio build a 12-point lead in the fourth.
- Without LeBron or Reaves, Luka distributed the ball extensively, recognizing he could not carry the offense alone.
- Wembenyama had a slow start and struggled with 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 Spurs saw Stephon Castle step up with Wemby on and off the bench. He carried them during a big run to end the 3rd quarter."
Final Outcome
The Lakers edged out the Spurs 118-116 in a thrilling finish, thanks to clutch plays and disciplined defense in the closing seconds.
Author's summary: Luka Doncic's return energized the Lakers, whose balanced attack and key defensive stops overcame Wembenyama's foul trouble to snatch a narrow victory over the Spurs.