Clippers Blast Lakers as Luka Doncic Exits Game in Second Half

LeBron James of the Lakers maneuvers through the Clippers' defense to score with a layup. Photo by Savion Washington for Tangent Zine.

After dropping five games in a row and sitting near the bottom of the Western Conference standings, the LA Clippers (7-21) began Saturday's game with vigor, keeping a lead throughout and at one point building a 22-point edge over their local rivals, the LA Lakers (19-8).

Luka Doncic of the Lakers shoots over the Clippers John Collins while Ivica Zubac and James Harden looks on. Photo by Savion Washington for Tangent Zine

The Clippers tightened their defense against the Lakers, causing them to miss shots, resulting in just 34 out of 88 attempts for a meager 39% field goal percentage and 16% (six for 38) from three-point range. Despite the Lakers narrowing the gap to seven points in the fourth quarter, the visiting team ultimately lost, 103-88.

Kawhi Leonard topped the Clippers with a season-best 32 points, while James Harden contributed 21 points and 10 assists for the team. John Collins chipped in with 17 points and 12 rebounds, helping to snap the Clippers' five-game losing streak.

Gallery photos taken by Savion Washington for Tangent Zine.

Luka Doncic, the NBA's top scorer, played 19 minutes in the first half but did not come back for the third quarter due to a lower leg contusion. After achieving a triple-double against Utah, Doncic recorded 12 points, five rebounds, and two assists by halftime, though he faced difficulties with his shooting, hitting four out of 13 shots from the field and one out of six from beyond the arc.

Luka Doncic from the Lakers is defended by the Clippers' Bogdan Bogdanović. Photo by Savion Washington for Tangent Zine.

LeBron James, who will be 41 on December 30, was the top scorer for the Lakers with a season-best 36 points, along with four rebounds, three assists, and two steals, making 15 out of 28 shots from the field.

During a season plagued by injuries, this was the lowest point total for the Lakers. They hope to have Rui Hachimura (groin), Deandre Ayton (left elbow), and Austin Reaves (left calf) back soon.