Dončić Powers Short-Handed Lakers to Thrilling Comeback Win Over Spurs
Photo credit- NBA
Los Angeles — In one of the most electrifying finishes of the young NBA season, Luka Dončić produced a breathtaking all-around performance to propel the Los Angeles Lakers to a 118-116 comeback victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night at Crypto.com Arena.
With LeBron James sidelined by a nerve issue, Dončić assumed full command of the offense and the spotlight logging 35 points, 13 assists, nine rebounds, and a career-high five steals. The Slovenian maestro became the first player in Lakers history to post at least 35 points, 10 assists, and five steals in a regular-season game since those stats have been officially tracked.
Trailing 106-97 midway through the final period, Los Angeles tightened its defense and unleashed a 16-2 run. Dončić drained a cold-blooded go-ahead three-pointer with 1:14 remaining to give the Lakers a 113-112 edge, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
The final seconds were chaotic. A late inbound violation gave San Antonio one last possession, but the Lakers’ defense held firm, securing their fifth consecutive win and improving their record to 7-2.
Spurs sensation Victor Wembanyama impressed with 19 points and eight rebounds, yet foul trouble derailed his impact in the clutch as he fouled out with under two minutes to play. The Spurs, once up by nine, could not withstand Dončić’s closing surge or the Lakers’ suffocating defense down the stretch.
Head coach JJ Redick praised Dončić’s leadership and toughness after the game. “For him and for the team, the message is resilience,” Redick said. “He fought through fouls and a tough shooting night but never lost focus. The guys feed off his calm under pressure.”
The Lakers continue to thrive despite injuries to key players, showing that their early-season success is anchored in depth, defense, and determination rather than individual superstardom alone.
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Abdul Rahman Taofiq
Abdul Rahman Taofiq is a Ghanaian journalist , focusing on politics, culture, and diaspora affairs..