LeBron James showcased his brilliance with a spectacular performance, notching 35 points and nine assists, steering the Los Angeles Lakers to a commanding 107-95 triumph against the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday night.
Anthony Davis proved instrumental with 16 points and 14 rebounds, complemented by D’Angelo Russell’s 14 points and six assists, contributing significantly to the Lakers’ victory. Taurean Prince and Christian Wood added 10 points each as Los Angeles secured their fourth win in five games, showcasing a strong run of form.
In contrast, Jerami Grant led the Trail Blazers’ scoring with 24 points, but Portland struggled, enduring their sixth consecutive loss. Despite solid performances from Deandre Ayton and Shaedon Sharpe, who notched 17 points each, the team also faced challenges, notably Sharpe’s career-worst 10 turnovers.
Skylar Mays contributed 15 points and eight assists, while Toumani Camara added 10 points for Portland, yet their efforts couldn’t reverse the team’s losing streak.
The Lakers maintained their dominance in the in-season tournament’s West Group A, securing a flawless 3-0 record. Meanwhile, the Trail Blazers faced a 1-2 standing in Group A play. Portland played without Malcolm Brogdon due to a hamstring injury, impacting their lineup for the fourth consecutive game.
Los Angeles demonstrated sharp shooting, hitting 49.4 percent from the field and sinking 12 of 30 from beyond the arc. LeBron James excelled from the 3-point range, making 5 of 9 shots, while D’Angelo Russell contributed with 4 of 7 successful attempts.
In contrast, the Trail Blazers struggled with their shooting, managing 40.4 percent overall and converting only 10 of 37 attempts from long range.
The Lakers took control in the fourth quarter, kicking off with a 7-0 run to build a commanding 89-75 advantage. Maintaining their momentum, they extended their lead to 99-83 with crucial contributions from Rui Hachimura and Cam Reddish.
Despite Portland’s late surge, closing the gap to 105-95, Anthony Davis’ clutch jumper with 1:42 left secured the Lakers’ victory, leading both teams to empty their benches in the closing moments.
LeBron James’ early domination set the tone, guiding the Lakers to a 60-50 halftime lead. Portland rallied late in the half, reducing the deficit to 10 points.
While the Trail Blazers threatened a comeback, narrowing the margin to 68-67, James responded with crucial 3-pointers, propelling the Lakers to an 82-75 lead entering the final quarter, ultimately securing a convincing win.