The LA Lakers and LA Clippers squared off in the fourth and final game of their season series on Wednesday. The Lakers had won the previous two and the Clippers had won the first.
In the initial clash, which happened in November of last year, the Lakers prevailed 106-103 in overtime. In January, they played again, with the Clippers coming out on top.
But in the broader context are the Lakers’ playoff aspirations. They sit in 10th place in the tough Western Conference as the regular season enters a critical phase. The Clippers can handle a loss, but the Lakers face a more dire situation.
Here are the top moments from the LA Lakers vs. LA Clippers game.
5. LeBron James Signature Chasedown Block
In his 21st season, LeBron James continues to defy Father Time, highlighted by his signature block on Amir Coffey in the first quarter .
The Clippers forward goes for a seemingly easy two points in transition. But James’ relentless pursuit resulted in a spectacular chase block, complemented by Austin Reeves’ disciplined defense, carefully avoiding Coffey until James timed his block perfectly.
4. LeBron James Passes and Slams Kawhi Leonard
LeBron James gave it his all from the start of the game, displaying an unparalleled level of activity from the start.
The highlight came when Anthony Davis perfectly predicted LeBron’s cut to the basket. This close understanding between the two froze the Clippers’ defense as LeBron ended the play with a tomahawk slam, highlighting their dynamic on-court partnership.
3. Terrence Mann plays Anthony Davis
Terrence Mann delivered standout moments thanks to his well-coordinated work with Kawhi Leonard and James Harden.
Starting with a handoff from Leonard, Mann benefited from consecutive screens from Harden and Leonard. This strategic play gave Man, who started on the wing, the momentum he needed, leaving D’Angelo Russell behind.
Anthony Davis tried to block the shot by extending his arm, but it proved ineffective. Mann stepped up even further, highlighting the game with a strong left-handed jam that showcased his athleticism and the Clippers’ offensive coordination.
2. Anthony Davis Packs Kawhi Leonard
Three minutes into the second half, Anthony Davis found himself in a key defensive position facing Kawhi Leonard on the perimeter.
Davis showed off his defensive prowess as Leonard tried to head straight toward the baseline. Davis absorbed the contact without committing a foul, perfectly controlled his jump, deflected Leonard’s dunk attempt, and forced a jump ball situation. The moment marked Davis’ third block of the game and was a testament to his significant defensive effort in just 23 minutes.
1. LeBron James takes over in the fourth quarter
In a stunning display of skill and determination, LeBron James delivered his most memorable performance in a Lakers jersey, dominating the fourth quarter with 19 points. dominated the Clippers and led the Lakers. A thrilling match resulted in a 116-112 victory.
Facing a 21-point deficit in the fourth quarter, the Lakers, featuring LeBron James, secured his one of the most important wins of the season. All of the Lakers’ starters scored in double figures, with LeBron leading the way.
He effectively made 13 of 19 shots from the field, going an impressive 7-11 from long range, and finished the game with 34 points, complemented by six rebounds and eight assists.
His fourth triple of the quarter increased his total to 29 points and narrowed the gap to 5 points at 104-99. His fifth 3-pointer of the quarter, against Daniel Theis, further cut the gap to just two points.
The 6th 3-point shot of the first half failed, but AD’s offensive rebound resulted in a foul and they tied the game at 106 points.