Despite Big Scoring Night, LeBron and Doncic Can’t Lift Lakers Past Magic

The Los Angeles Lakers’ playoff aspirations took a hit as they fell 118-106 to the Orlando Magic, despite strong offensive performances from Luka Doncic and LeBron James. Doncic scored 32 points, and James added 24, but their combined efforts weren’t enough to overcome the Magic’s surge. This loss marks the Lakers’ third consecutive defeat, placing them in a tie with the Memphis Grizzlies for fourth place in the Western Conference standings.  

Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero led the Magic’s charge, each scoring over 30 points. Orlando’s decisive 34-18 third-quarter run proved to be the turning point, giving them control of the game. This loss comes on the heels of a blowout defeat to the Chicago Bulls, further highlighting the Lakers’ recent struggles.  

Coach JJ Redick attributed the team’s decline to a lack of defensive intensity, a stark contrast to their previous eight-game winning streak. He also suggested that the constant lineup changes due to injuries may have contributed to their fatigue and inconsistent performance.

While the Lakers mounted a late comeback attempt, cutting the deficit to seven points, the Magic quickly regained control. Redick emphasized the need for practice time to reintegrate recently returned players and reestablish the team’s rhythm and flow. He acknowledged that the team is currently lacking the cohesion and intensity they displayed during their earlier winning streak.