Lakers Start NBA Cup with a Nail-Biting Win
The Los Angeles Lakers opened their NBA In-Season Tournament campaign with a thrilling 120-115 victory over the San Antonio Spurs.
As the defending tournament champions, the Lakers set out to establish their dominance again but faced a stiff challenge from a hungry Spurs team led by rising star Victor Wembanyama.
Anthony Davis 😮💨
— NBA TV (@NBATV) November 16, 2024
🔥 40 PTS | 12 REB | 2 BLK | 54% FG pic.twitter.com/PJJ0LbWsmk
AD Dominance
Anthony Davis wasted no time asserting himself as the focal point of the offense, playing all 12 minutes of the first quarter and scoring 16 points to keep Los Angeles competitive.
Despite trailing for much of the opening period, the Lakers took their first lead in the final 20 seconds thanks to Davis’ relentless play. By the end of the game, Davis had delivered a masterful 40-point, 12-rebound performance on 26 shot attempts, showing why he remains the team’s top option.
The Lakers turned the game around in the second quarter, fueled by deflections and transition points that sparked a 21-3 run. Their defensive energy created easy scoring opportunities, allowing them to take a 68-60 lead into halftime.
Shooting 45% from three-point range, the Lakers used their perimeter efficiency to stretch the floor and control the game’s tempo.
LeBron’s triple-double streak
LeBron James extended his incredible streak of triple-doubles, recording his fourth in a row. While Davis carried much of the scoring load, LeBron’s playmaking and leadership were critical in the closing moments.
His ability to orchestrate the offense ensured the Lakers maintained their composure as the Spurs mounted a late-game push.
JJ Redick said he is very happy for Max Christie, out of the rotation last game, but then ready to step in tonight and finishing +23 with a great all-around effort. He said he told Max “If you play that way, I don’t want to take you off the court.”
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) November 16, 2024
Max Christie’s shining moment
Max Christie, who has been a disappointment for much of the season, finally came alive with a much-needed breakout performance. Christie provided timely scoring off the bench and improved defensive effort, offering a glimpse of the potential the Lakers have been hoping to see.
His resurgence gave the team a crucial boost during key stretches, helping them hold their lead when the starters rested.
The Spurs, however, did not make things easy. Victor Wembanyama, now in his second NBA season, proved why he’s already one of the league’s most formidable players.
Wembanyama finished with 28 points, 14 rebounds, and several game-changing defensive plays that kept San Antonio in striking distance. The Spurs clawed back late in the fourth quarter, but timely free throws and critical defensive stops allowed the Lakers to escape with the victory.
As the defending In-Season Tournament champions, the Lakers opened their campaign with a statement win.
While there are still questions about their consistency and bench contributions, performances like this one from Anthony Davis and LeBron James show that the Lakers have the tools to contend once again.
The Lakers will look to build on this momentum as they continue tournament play, aiming to defend their title and solidify their place as one of the NBA’s elite teams.
