Doncic Drops 31, LeBron Adds 28 as Lakers Edge Clippers 106-102/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Luka Doncic celebrated his 26th birthday in style, scoring 31 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 106-102 victory over the Clippers on Friday night. LeBron James added 28 points and 13 rebounds, helping the Lakers secure their fifth straight win despite missing two key starters. The Clippers, led by Ivica Zubac’s season-high 27 points and 16 rebounds, struggled with turnovers and poor shooting, dropping their fourth game in five outings.
Lakers Beat Clippers: Quick Look
- Doncic’s big night: The birthday boy dropped 31 points, including 10 in the fourth quarter.
- LeBron’s leadership: James contributed 28 points and 13 rebounds, helping LA control the tempo.
- Clippers’ struggles: Ivica Zubac dominated inside, but Kawhi Leonard (21 points) and James Harden (5-for-22 FG) couldn’t get their shots to fall.
- Injury concerns: Austin Reaves (calf) and Rui Hachimura (knee) were sidelined, but the Lakers fought through their depleted lineup.
- Key moment: Doncic found LeBron for a crucial layup with 2:14 left, followed by a Jaxson Hayes dunk to seal the game.
- Historic stat: Doncic moved to sixth all-time in points scored before turning 26 (12,205), trailing only legends like Kobe Bryant and LeBron James.
Doncic Drops 31, LeBron Adds 28 as Lakers Edge Clippers 106-102
Lakers Stay Hot with Gritty Win Over Clippers
Doncic Delivers on His Birthday
Luka Doncic didn’t let a slow start or a tough Clippers defense ruin his big day. After struggling through the first three quarters, he took over in the fourth, drilling back-to-back three-pointers to give the Lakers a double-digit lead. His clutch shot-making, combined with his elite playmaking, helped the Lakers hold off a late Clippers rally.
“It’s always special to win on your birthday,” Doncic said after the game. “But more importantly, we’re building something here. We’re locked in.”
LeBron’s Veteran Leadership Keeps Lakers Rolling
At 40 years old, LeBron James continues to defy age, playing a pivotal role in yet another Lakers victory. James was dominant on both ends of the floor, scoring 28 points while also grabbing 13 rebounds and dishing out key assists.
His most important moment came late in the game when Doncic found him for a layup with just over two minutes left, stretching the Lakers’ lead to six.
“We’re just finding ways to win,” James said. “No excuses, no matter who’s out. That’s the mindset we have.”
Clippers’ Offense Falls Short Again
Despite Ivica Zubac’s monster performance (27 points, 16 rebounds), the Clippers couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities. Kawhi Leonard scored 21 points, but James Harden’s off night (5-for-22 FG, 1-for-10 from three) proved costly.
The Clippers turned the ball over 18 times, leading to crucial fast-break points for the Lakers. The loss marked their fourth in five games since the All-Star break, raising concerns about their late-season form.
“We have to take care of the ball,” Clippers coach Tyronn Lue said. “That’s the difference in close games like this.”
Lakers Show Depth Despite Injuries
Playing their second game in as many nights, the Lakers had to adjust without Austin Reaves (calf) and Rui Hachimura (knee). But they showed resilience, getting contributions from Jaxson Hayes, Gabe Vincent, and Taurean Prince, who helped fill the void.
Lakers coach JJ Redick remained optimistic about Hachimura’s injury, saying he expects him back soon.
Historic Night for Doncic
Doncic’s 31-point performance moved him into sixth place in NBA history for most points scored before turning 26. His 12,205 career points put him just 10 shy of Kobe Bryant’s 12,215, with LeBron holding the all-time record at 16,081.
What’s Next?
- The Lakers and Clippers meet again Sunday night, setting up a quick rematch.
- Can the Lakers keep their winning streak alive, or will the Clippers bounce back?
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