Luka Doncic made a strong return from injury with an impressive performance against Victor Wembenyama and the San Antonio Spurs in a thrilling game decided at the last moments by the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Lakers appeared to have secured the win, leading by four points in the final seconds. However, Kelley Olynyk scored a two-point basket with just 1.2 seconds left. Marcus Smart quickly inbounded to Rui Hachimura on the opposite end, but he stepped on the baseline, turning the ball over to San Antonio.
"Julian Champagnie was fouled on the inbound and got to the free-throw line for a chance to tie the game, but missed both shots, with the second almost tipped in."
The Lakers held on to clinch their fifth consecutive win.
Luka excelled in playmaking, finishing with 13 assists. When the Lakers needed a lead, he took control and made a crucial shot with just over two minutes remaining in the fourth quarter.
Victor Wembenyama’s early fourth-quarter fifth foul created space for the Spurs’ inside players like Hayes to operate more freely. Stephon Castle stepped up, especially during a key run at the end of the third quarter that gave San Antonio a 12-point lead in the fourth.
Without LeBron James or Austin Reaves, Luka had to distribute the ball efficiently instead of carrying the team alone. One key assist was the pass to Hachimura, which stood out as a highlight.
Wembenyama started slow and struggled with foul trouble in the second half, impacting his presence on the court.
"The Spurs saw Stephon Castle step up with Wemby on and off the bench, carrying them during a big run to end the 3rd quarter."
The final score was 118-116 in favor of the Lakers.
Summary: Luka Doncic’s return fueled a narrow Lakers victory over the Spurs, with key plays under pressure and Wembenyama’s foul trouble shifting momentum late in the game.
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