Doncic’s 52 lifts Lakers past Jazz for 3-0 start
AM730 · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago1 MIN
Summary
The post-LeBron James Lakers continued their fast start on Sunday, overturning an 18-point first-quarter deficit to beat the Utah Jazz 132-123 in Salt Lake City. Luka Doncic led the comeback with a career-best 52 points, while Austin Reaves added 29 as Los Angeles improved to 3-0 for the new season.
Key Points
- The Lakers trailed by 18 after the first quarter as Ace Bailey scored 15 points and Lauri Markkanen added 12 in the opening period for Utah
- Reaves sparked the turnaround with 15 points in the second quarter, helping Los Angeles take a three-point lead into halftime.
- Doncic took over after the break, scoring 27 second-half points and finishing with 52 points, eight three-pointers, eight rebounds, 10 assists and two steals in 38 minutes.
- Reaves finished with 29 points and four assists, and he credited coach JJ Redick’s system, rebounding and transition play for the comeback
- The Lakers’ next game is at home against the Portland Trail Blazers after opening the season with three straight wins
Why It Matters
For Hong Kong NBA followers, the early evidence is that the Lakers remain a major draw even after James’ departure, with Doncic quickly becoming the focal point of both results and storylines. The same night also sharpened the contrast across the league, as defending champions New York dropped to 0-3 and Philadelphia took its first loss of the season