Luka Doncic erupted for 38 points and 11 assists in his return from a hamstring injury, powering the Los Angeles Lakers to a hard-fought 125-122 victory over the crosstown rival Los Angeles Clippers on Friday night at Crypto.com Arena.

Luka Dončić
Luka Dončić

The win improved the Lakers to 34-21 and allowed them to split the four-game season series with the Clippers, who fell to 27-29. It marked the first time since the All-Star break that Doncic, LeBron James and Austin Reaves shared the court together — happening in just the 11th game of the season for the star trio due to injuries and rotations.

Doncic, returning after missing four games before the break and playing limited minutes in the All-Star Game, wasted no time asserting dominance. He scored 17 points in the first quarter alone, hitting four of five 3-pointers as the Lakers shot lights-out early, making 16 of 17 shots during one stretch. He finished 11-of-25 from the field, including a scorching 8-of-14 from beyond the arc, adding six rebounds, three steals and one block. His 12 points in the fourth quarter proved crucial as the Lakers protected a lead that once reached 15 points in the second half.

Austin Reaves complemented Doncic with 29 points on 9-of-15 shooting, including four 3-pointers, plus six rebounds. LeBron James contributed 13 points and 11 assists in a facilitating role, helping orchestrate the offense as the trio combined for 80 points and 24 assists.

The Lakers built a 72-65 halftime lead behind Doncic's hot start and efficient ball movement. But the Clippers mounted a furious comeback, erasing much of the deficit with a strong third quarter and closing run. Kawhi Leonard led Los Angeles' side with 31 points, five assists and four rebounds, keeping the game close until late. Leonard exited briefly in the final minutes — reports indicated a minor issue, though no immediate severity was confirmed — adding tension to the Clippers' push.

Defensive lapses allowed the Clippers to trim the margin multiple times, but Doncic's clutch free throws with 21.2 seconds remaining sealed a five-point cushion that held up. The Clippers' late surge fell short despite strong bench contributions and efforts from players like John Collins, who was involved in earlier action but missed the second half following a head injury from the previous context in the rivalry narrative.

The game highlighted the Lakers' offensive firepower when healthy stars align. Doncic's performance drew praise for its efficiency and trash-talking flair, particularly against Clippers guard Kris Dunn, who guarded him for stretches. "Luka hates the Clippers," one social media commenter quipped, capturing the intensity of the rivalry.

For the Clippers, the loss underscored ongoing struggles with consistency and injuries. Leonard's strong night wasn't enough to overcome the Lakers' star power, and the team continues battling for positioning in a crowded Western Conference playoff race.

The victory provides momentum for the Lakers post-All-Star break, reinforcing their status as contenders when key pieces are available. Coach JJ Redick's rotations emphasized spacing and ball movement, allowing Doncic to exploit mismatches and Reaves to thrive off the ball.

Fans at Crypto.com Arena witnessed a classic LA showdown, with the purple and gold pulling away just enough in a game that featured 3-point barrages and defensive stands. Doncic's 38-point outburst — his league-leading efforts in several categories — reminded everyone why the Lakers pursued the superstar in offseason moves.

As the season progresses, both teams face tough schedules ahead. The Lakers aim to build continuity with their big three, while the Clippers seek health and rhythm to climb standings.
Friday's thriller delivered entertainment and stakes, with Doncic's heroics ensuring the Lakers left victorious in the latest chapter of one of basketball's fiercest rivalries.