TITLE: Lakers Halt Skid Behind James and Doncic; Leonard Posts 55; Suns Address Williams–Alvarado Fight
SLUG: lakers-james-doncic-leonard-55-suns-suspensions
CONTENT:
Los Angeles — LeBron James and Luka Doncic powered the Lakers to a lopsided win over Sacramento on Sunday night, snapping the club’s three-game losing streak and answering coach JJ Redick’s recent criticism of the team’s defense and professionalism.
Lakers’ leaders set the tone
James hit 11 of 13 shots and finished with 24 points, while Doncic poured in a game-high 34, 15 of which came in the second quarter as Los Angeles took control early. “It’s five guys on the floor and seven off the bench — it needs to be all of us,” James said after the victory. Doncic echoed the sentiment, noting that leadership is vital while guard Austin Reaves is sidelined for roughly a month with a calf strain.
Nick Smith Jr. stakes his claim
Two-way guard Nick Smith Jr. provided a spark, sinking his first seven attempts and totaling 21 points in 24 minutes. With one open roster spot, the Lakers could consider converting his deal later in the season. “I feel like I can hoop with the best of them,” Smith said. “In this league, you’ve got to have confidence.”
Leonard ties franchise mark with 55
Across town, Kawhi Leonard erupted for a career-best 55 points as the Clippers beat Detroit for their fourth straight win. The All-Star forward matched the franchise single-game record despite logging only six fourth-quarter minutes. “I’d rather play another game than go out there and risk it,” Leonard told coach Tyronn Lue about staying on the bench late.
Suns react to suspensions
In Phoenix, interim coach Jordan Ott attributed the fight that led to suspensions for center Mark Williams and Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado to a more physical environment during Saturday’s matchup, the second meeting in as many nights. “They let us play tonight, which is something we enjoy,” Ott said, noting that fewer foul calls preceded the third-quarter altercation in which the two players exchanged punches.
The Pacific Division resumes play later this week, with the Lakers looking to build on Sunday’s momentum, the Clippers aiming for a fifth consecutive victory, and the Suns adjusting to their temporary front-court loss.
Source: HoopsRumors
