The Los Angeles Lakers are back on the winning track thanks to a late victory over the Phoenix Suns. LeBron James scored the decisive points and made a block. However, the manner of the victory was controversial.
From the Lakers’ point of view, the victory ultimately had a bitter aftertaste. At the start of the final quarter, the Californians were leading the game by 20 points before the Suns staged an outstanding comeback. With twelve seconds left on the clock, Dillon Brooks sealed a 17:2 run in the final four minutes with a three-pointer, putting the home team back in front for the first time (114:113).
In the last attack of the game, LeBron James took a forced three-pointer deep in the shot clock after a pass from Luka Doncic. The “King” missed the target by a long way, but the referees awarded him a controversial shooting foul by defender Devin Booker – much to the annoyance of the Suns team. James made two of three free throws (114-115). With three seconds left, Phoenix’s Allen attempted a last-ditch floater, but James once again had his fingers in the play.
Ayton excels against his former team
LeBron, who celebrates his 41st birthday in just under two weeks, finished the game with 26 points and four assists, but also eight turnovers. The Yellow-Purples’ top scorer was Luka Doncic with 29 points, but he also had major offensive problems (7/25, 13/14 FW).
In addition to the decisive possessions at the end of the game, the Lakers’ work on the boards made the big difference. The Californians won the rebound battle 54-37, with 24 offensive rebounds alone. Former Sun Deandre Ayton stood out with 13 rebounds, six of them offensive, and 20 points (10/11).
Six Phoenix players scored in double figures, with Devin Booker leading the way with 27 points and 7 assists. Center Mark Williams added 20 points (9/10).
With 18 wins and seven losses, the Lakers remain in fourth place in the Western Conference. The Phoenix Suns remain in seventh place, however, as the Lakers and Grizzlies were once again unable to apply any pressure.
