Lakers Edge Spurs in Thrilling Finish, Overcome Late Mistakes to Extend Win Streak

article image source: wikimedia.org (link)

The Los Angeles Lakers continued their winning momentum on Wednesday night with a narrow 118–116 victory over the San Antonio Spurs. Despite several tense moments in the final seconds, the Lakers managed to secure their fifth straight win, showcasing both resilience and star power on their home court.

Doncic Leads the Charge

Luka Doncic was once again at the heart of the Lakers’ success, delivering a near triple-double performance with 35 points, 13 assists, and nine rebounds. He also matched a career high with five steals, proving crucial on both ends of the floor. Doncic’s leadership became even more evident in the fourth quarter, when he hit a decisive three-pointer with just over two minutes remaining to give the Lakers a 113–112 lead — one they would not relinquish.

With LeBron James (sciatica) still sidelined and Austin Reaves (groin) missing his second consecutive game, the Lakers leaned heavily on Doncic’s playmaking and composure. Deandre Ayton added strength inside with 22 points and 10 rebounds, while Marcus Smart contributed 17 points and five assists.

Bronny getting ready for Spurs-Lakers ?

A Game of Momentum Shifts

The game was a battle of runs. San Antonio jumped ahead early, leading by as many as 10 in the first quarter before the Lakers rallied to take a 60–59 halftime lead. The Spurs countered in the third quarter with an 18–6 run, highlighted by rookie Stephon Castle’s energetic play, to build a 10-point cushion heading into the final frame.

However, the Lakers’ experience and poise took over in the closing minutes. Their defense tightened, their ball movement improved, and Doncic’s timely shooting pushed them back in front.

Luka Doncic Postgame Interview - Spurs vs Lakers

Late Drama: Smart and LaRavia Nearly Undo the Comeback

The final seconds nearly turned disastrous for Los Angeles. Marcus Smart, trying to inbound the ball quickly, stepped over the line and turned it over with mere seconds left. “As a 12-year vet, I can’t make that mistake,” Smart admitted postgame, acknowledging the near-blunder that almost cost the Lakers the win.

Even after recovering possession, another scare followed. With just 0.4 seconds on the clock, Jake LaRavia fouled San Antonio’s Julian Champagnie on a three-point attempt. The foul could have easily sent the game into overtime, but the Lakers were spared when Champagnie — a career 85% free-throw shooter — missed both attempts.

Wembanyama and Spurs Fall Short

Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 19 points and eight rebounds but struggled with foul trouble, ultimately fouling out with 1:40 left. It marked his second consecutive game below expectations, as he went 5-for-14 from the field and committed five turnovers. San Antonio’s supporting cast contributed evenly — Castle finished with 16 points and eight assists, Jeremy Sochan also had 16, and Devin Vassell added 15 — but the team couldn’t close the deal in the final moments.

The loss marked the Spurs’ second straight defeat following a strong 5–0 start to the season. They continue to adjust after early injuries to De’Aaron Fox (hamstring) and rookie Dylan Harper (calf).

Conclusion: Lakers’ Poise Defines Their Identity

The Lakers’ narrow escape against the Spurs was as much a lesson as it was a win. It highlighted both the fragility and resilience of a team still finding its rhythm without LeBron James. Luka Doncic’s leadership continues to set the tone, while players like Smart and Ayton provide the balance between veteran grit and tactical execution.

As the Lakers extend their winning streak to five games, the message is clear: even in moments of chaos, their growing chemistry and confidence are carrying them forward. If they can clean up their late-game mistakes, Los Angeles may soon look less like a team surviving games — and more like one destined to control them.

Sources: