The Los Angeles Lakers’ perfect road record vanished on Saturday night, Nov. 8, 2025, after a 109-87 defeat to the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena. The loss opened a five-game trip for Los Angeles and came against an Atlanta roster missing several regulars.
The Hawks, playing the second half of a back-to-back, were without Trae Young, Jalen Johnson, Kristaps Porzingis and Nickeil Alexander-Walker. Despite the absences, Atlanta controlled the pace early and outscored the Lakers 60-41 after intermission.
Center Deandre Ayton acknowledged that the Lakers underestimated the undermanned opponent.
“We looked at their injury report and didn’t keep those guys accountable,” Ayton told Spectrum SportsNet. “This is the NBA—everyone can play. They hit shots we didn’t see on film, ran in transition and defended hard, and we weren’t ready.”
Ayton added that Los Angeles should have been prepared, noting the team’s own recent victory in Portland with a depleted lineup. “It’s a tough pill to swallow,” he said. “It looks bad on paper and on film, but we have 82 games—next one up.”
The Lakers’ defense proved the primary concern. Atlanta finished with more than 30 assists and repeatedly attacked the paint, leaving Los Angeles “disconnected,” according to Ayton.
Head coach JJ Redick offered little commentary after the game, expressing disappointment in the team’s overall effort.
Los Angeles continues the trip Monday against the Charlotte Hornets.
Source: LakersNation.com
