Lakers Defeat Clippers in Tense Final Showdown

Bassyonni

Published: February 21, 2026 3:59 AM ET

Lakers Defeat Clippers in Tense Final Showdown

The Lakers triumphed over the Clippers in a thrilling game, winning 125-122 following the All-Star break. The match showcased intense back-and-forth action and standout performances from both sides.

Lakers’ Hot Start

The game began with Brook Lopez scoring five points for the Clippers. Austin Reaves answered for the Lakers, netting their first five points. The Lakers quickly found their rhythm, shooting 80% from the field early on, with LeBron James contributing seven points.

Initial Lead

By the 6:18 mark, Los Angeles held a three-point advantage. Luka Dončić then caught fire, sinking two three-pointers to boost the Clippers. Despite Lopez’s early dominance with nine points, the Lakers established control, finishing the first quarter up by 12.

Clippers Rally Back

In the second quarter, Benedict Mathurin began for the Clippers with a jump shot. Reaves continued to excel, making a jumper while Rui Hachimura added a three-pointer. The Clippers clawed back as Kawhi Leonard heated up, scoring eight points to cut the deficit to single digits.

Leonard finished the first half with 21 points.
The Clippers led in second-chance points, 14-2.

At halftime, the Lakers maintained a seven-point lead.

Third Quarter Surge

The third quarter saw Leonard turnover the ball, allowing Reaves to make a three-pointer. The Lakers extended their lead to 15 before the Clippers mounted a comeback, fueled by a 17-1 scoring run that briefly put them ahead by two.

Fourth Quarter Drama

Entering the final quarter, the Lakers were up by four. Jarred Vanderbilt ignited the Lakers’ offense with a dunk, but the Clippers quickly tied the game. Reaves hit another three-pointer to regain the lead for Los Angeles.

However, the Lakers struggled in the fourth, shooting only 16%. Key plays included Marcus Smart’s critical three-pointer and Luka’s seventh three-pointer of the night. Leonard exited the game due to ankle soreness, impacting the Clippers’ performance.

Luka scored a crucial three-point play late in the game.
Both teams exchanged points in a tense final minute.

Notable Performances

Luka led the scoring with 38 points, contributing six rebounds and 11 assists. Reaves followed with 29 points, while LeBron added 13 points and 11 assists. The Lakers’ upcoming matchup is against the Boston Celtics, scheduled for Sunday at 3:30 PM PT.