Lakers Kick Off NBA Cup Title Defense with Nail-Biting Win Over Spurs
SAN ANTONIO — The Los Angeles Lakers commenced their quest for back-to-back NBA Cup titles with a thrilling 120-115 victory against the San Antonio Spurs on Friday night at Frost Bank Center. This triumph marks the debut of the Lakers’ campaign in the inaugural NBA Cup Group Play, following last year’s flawless run to the championship.
Anthony Davis led the charge with a season-high 40 points, shooting 14 for 26 from the field, including two three-pointers, and converted 10 of 12 from the free-throw line. He also grabbed 12 rebounds and contributed two blocks. LeBron James, showcasing his versatility, recorded his fourth consecutive triple-double with 15 points, 16 rebounds, and 12 assists, solidifying his Hall of Fame legacy.
Despite a rocky start, with the Spurs running off nine unanswered points, the Lakers rebounded, thanks in part to Davis’ late first-quarter surge that propelled them to a 31-30 lead. Austin Reaves added 19 points and critical assists, making a timely three-pointer that shifted momentum back to the Lakers late in the game.
Other contributors included Max Christie, who scored 11 points in his return to the lineup, D’Angelo Russell with 13 points, and Gabe Vincent, who added 6 points. The rookie Dalton Knecht stepped up with 14 points, filling in for the sidelined Rui Hachimura due to a sprained ankle.
On the opposing side, Spurs star Victor Wembanyama shone with a strong performance, tallying 28 points and 14 rebounds, but the Lakers’ defense clamped down as the game progressed. The Lakers now head to New Orleans for their next matchup against the Pelicans.
Stay tuned for updates on this evolving story.
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