In a dramatic turnaround that underlined his enduring prowess, LeBron James led the Los Angeles Lakers to a sensational 116-112 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers, overturning a 21-point deficit in the final regular-season game between these city rivals at their shared downtown arena.
The 39-year-old James, showcasing a vintage performance, scored 19 of his 34 points in a crucial fourth quarter, hitting a season-high seven 3-pointers and playing a pivotal role in the Lakers’ comeback.
The Clippers, who seemed to have the game under control with a 98-77 lead at the start of the fourth quarter, were outscored 19-16 by James alone during the final period.
James’ remarkable effort included either scoring or assisting on 11 of the Lakers’ 13 baskets in the fourth quarter, highlighting his unmatched influence on the court. The game’s climax saw Kawhi Leonard of the Clippers miss a crucial 12-footer, followed by James’ assist to Cam Reddish for a dunk that sealed the game for the Lakers.
This victory not only marked a stunning comeback but also secured the Lakers three wins out of four games against the Clippers this season, achieving a season series win for the first time since the 2011-12 season. Anthony Davis contributed significantly with 20 points and 12 rebounds, alongside notable performances from Russell with 18 points and Hachimura adding 17.
On the other side, the Clippers, despite strong performances from Leonard with 26 points and James Harden with 23 points and nine assists, felt the absence of All-Star Paul George due to a sore left knee and starting center Ivica Zubac due to illness. This loss added to the Clippers’ challenges, marking their first back-to-back defeats since December 23.
Around the League: Nuggets, Mavericks, Bulls, Timberwolves, and Pacers Secure Wins
– The Denver Nuggets overcame the Sacramento Kings 117-96, with Jamal Murray scoring 32 points and Nikola Jokic achieving his 19th triple-double of the season. The Nuggets’ victory broke a potential season sweep by the Kings.
– The Dallas Mavericks celebrated Luka Doncic’s 25th birthday with a 136-125 win over the Toronto Raptors. Doncic’s triple-double, complemented by Kyrie Irving’s critical fourth-quarter performance, propelled the Mavericks to snap a two-game skid.
– In a double-overtime thriller, the Chicago Bulls outlasted the Cleveland Cavaliers 132-123. DeMar DeRozan’s 35 points and Andre Drummond’s 26 rebounds underscored a resilient Bulls team that overcame a recent loss to secure a victory against one of the Eastern Conference’s top teams.
– The Minnesota Timberwolves claimed the outright Western Conference lead with a 110-101 win against the Memphis Grizzlies. Anthony Edwards led the charge with 34 points, highlighting the Timberwolves’ ambition and capability as they ascend the conference standings.
– The Indiana Pacers defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 123-114, with Pascal Siakam and Tyrese Haliburton leading the way. This victory sets the stage for a rematch, promising another intense battle as the teams meet again in New Orleans.
As the NBA season progresses, the intensity and stakes continue to rise, with each game providing its share of drama, comebacks, and individual brilliance. But the Lakers’ remarkable comeback against the Clippers, led by the indomitable LeBron James, surely adds another memorable chapter to the storied rivalry
