The Los Angeles Lakers secured a spot in the Emirates NBA Cup quarterfinals on Tuesday night, defeating the L.A. Clippers 135-118 at Crypto.com Arena.
Both teams entered the West Group B matchup 2-0, meaning the winner would clinch the group. Defense took a back seat as the rivals traded baskets through three quarters before the Lakers’ top trio seized control down the stretch.
Big performances decide tight contest
Luka Doncic fueled the offense early, repeatedly jawing with the Clippers bench and responding by drilling shots from long range. The guard finished with 43 points, 13 assists and nine rebounds, keeping Los Angeles in striking distance whenever the Clippers threatened to pull away.
Austin Reaves delivered most of his damage in the fourth period while Doncic rested, stringing together several key field goals after disputing a few whistles. Reaves tallied 31 points, nine rebounds and three assists, providing the perfect complement to Doncic’s production.
LeBron James rounded out the effort with 25 points, six rebounds and six assists. Showing fresh legs at both ends, James pushed the tempo and helped seal the game in the final minutes.
What’s next
By improving to 3-0 in group play, the Lakers claimed West Group B and advanced to the NBA Cup quarterfinals. The team wraps up group action Friday when it hosts the Dallas Mavericks, then welcomes the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday.
Source: LakersNation.com
