Lakers beat 107- 96 Suns to end losing steak

Lakers and the Phoenix Suns concluded with a decisive 107-96 victory for the Lakers, effectively ending their four-game losing streak. This win is particularly significant as it marks the first triumph since star player LeBron James was sidelined due to a groin injury . Luka Dončić emerged as the standout performer, contributing 33 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists. Austin Reaves also played a crucial role by adding 28 points, showcasing the depth of talent within the Lakers' roster despite injuries to key players.

Luka Dončić performance.

With the victory, L.A. picked up its first win since LeBron James was sidelined with a groin strain, having lost three straight without James on the court. James is expected to miss at least another week with the injury.

Even though they didn’t have LeBron James and Rui Hachimura in their starting lineup, Hayes’ return and Finney-Smith’s and Goodwin’s defense made the Lakers look more like the team that had won eight straight and not the one that just dropped four in a row on the road.

Playing their first of five home games this week, the Lakers recaptured their identity largely thanks to their role players, the team clamping down on the Suns during a 107-96 win.

Early in the fourth quarter, Dončić was spotted on the sideline with an ice pack on his right ankle after an awkward collision earlier in the game. But he returned to the court soon afterward, indicating the injury wasn't too severe.

Kevin Durant managed to score 21 points; however, his team's poor shooting performance—particularly from beyond the arc—was detrimental. The Suns finished with a dismal three-point shooting percentage of just 22% , which significantly impacted their ability to compete . As such, this game not only reflects individual player performances but also highlights broader team dynamics and strategies in play during high-stakes matchups.

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Sarah H

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