The Los Angeles Lakers wrapped up NBA Emirates Cup group play on Friday night with a 129-119 victory over the Dallas Mavericks at Crypto.com Arena, completing an undefeated run through West Group B.
Los Angeles had already secured the top spot in the group after defeating the L.A. Clippers, but faced a stubborn Dallas squad in a game that featured standout performances from Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic.
Reaves leads all scorers
Reaves took full advantage of the defensive attention aimed at Doncic, repeatedly capitalizing on open looks and downhill drives. The third-year guard posted a career-high 38 points on 12-of-15 shooting, including several timely three-pointers, while adding eight rebounds and three assists. His fourth-quarter surge helped the Lakers maintain control down the stretch.
Doncic keeps Mavericks close
Doncic started slowly but found a rhythm by exploiting mismatches. The Dallas star finished with 35 points, going a perfect 11-for-11 at the free-throw line, and added 11 assists and four rebounds.
Additional contributions
Deandre Ayton returned to the Lakers’ lineup and was efficient inside, scoring 17 points on 8-of-9 from the field.
What’s next
Having gone 4-0 in group play, the Lakers will host the San Antonio Spurs in the Emirates Cup quarterfinals. Before the knockout round begins, Los Angeles welcomes the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday and the Phoenix Suns on Monday in a back-to-back at home.
Source: Lakers Nation
