Luka Doncic scored 31 factors and LeBron James added 28 factors with 13 rebounds because the Los Angeles Lakers prolonged their successful streak to 5 video games with a 106-102 victory Friday over the Los Angeles Clippers.
The Lakers had been capable of regroup with 29 bench factors after dropping Austin Reaves to a first-quarter calf harm. Los Angeles already was with out beginning ahead Rui Hachimura, who got here away with a left knee pressure in opposition to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday.
Doncic, who was celebrating his twenty sixth birthday, delivered his second highest scoring sport within the seven he has performed in a Lakers uniform. An addition on the commerce deadline, Doncic has averaged 25.8 factors over the previous 4 video games.
Ivica Zubac scored 27 factors with 16 rebounds and Kawhi Leonard added 21 factors for the Clippers, who’ve misplaced 4 of 5 for the reason that All-Star break.
James Harden scored 18 factors for the Clippers on 5-of-22 capturing from the ground, together with 1 of 10 from 3-point vary, and had six turnovers with 9 assists. He was 1 of 13 from the ground within the second half.
Kris Dunn, beginning for the Clippers rather than main scorer Norman Powell (knee), had 14 factors, 9 rebounds, six assists and 4 steals.
The Lakers improved to 2-1 collection in opposition to the Clippers and are set to play host to the finale of the season collection on Sunday.
By a good first half, the Lakers opened a 59-54 lead on the break and led 83-77 by way of three quarters. Doncic scored eight consecutive factors for the Lakers, together with a pair of 3-pointers, to place the Lakers up 98-88 with 6:23 remaining.
A fast 8-0 run introduced the Clippers inside 98-96 with 5:01 left earlier than layups by Doncic and Gabe Vincent put the Lakers up 102-96 with 4:23 on the clock.
Leonard missed a 3-pointer that will have introduced the Clippers inside a degree with 21.5 seconds remaining, and Bogdan Bogdanovic missed one other 3-point try with 10 seconds remaining for the Clippers.
–Area Stage Media