The Los Angeles Lakers dropped a 105-101 decision to the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday night, marking L.A.’s first loss in a game defined as “clutch time” this season.
The matchup at Crypto.com Arena featured both stars listed as questionable earlier in the day—LeBron James (calf) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (knee)—but each took the floor for their first head-to-head duel since Dec. 2, 2022.
Early swings
Luka Doncic opened the contest with consecutive three-pointers and later set up alley-oops for Deandre Ayton and James, giving the Lakers a 12-7 advantage. Milwaukee responded after a timeout, capitalizing on L.A. turnovers to claim a slim 25-24 deficit at the quarter break.
Bucks seize control before halftime
The second period turned when Antetokounmpo began scoring in transition and Kevin Porter Jr. repeatedly penetrated the paint, helping Milwaukee establish a double-digit margin. James accounted for most of the Lakers’ offense in the quarter, but the Bucks carried a 61-52 lead into intermission.
Third-quarter push answered
The Lakers strung together six quick points to start the third, only to watch Antetokounmpo power a Milwaukee response. Doncic briefly reignited with a three-pointer and an and-one, yet the Bucks’ perimeter shooting re-extended the gap to 86-77 entering the fourth.
Final minutes
James scored the first five points of the final period and, after back-to-back baskets, pushed Los Angeles ahead. The teams traded possessions until the final minute, when Doncic fouled Porter on a three-point attempt. Porter converted two of three free throws, and Doncic fouled out on the play. A turnover on the Lakers’ last trip sealed the result.
Stat line
James led Los Angeles with 34 points, while Antetokounmpo paced Milwaukee with 31. The defeat drops the Lakers to 0-1 in games decided within five points during the last five minutes; they had been unbeaten in that scenario entering the night.
Up next
Los Angeles is off until Monday, when it visits the Sacramento Kings, before returning home Tuesday to host the Atlanta Hawks.
Source: LakersNation.com
