_Lakers Hold Off Mavericks 107-99, Behind LeBron James’ 4th Quarter Heroics and Luka Doncic’s Triple-Double_
Los Angeles, CA – The Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks engaged in a thrilling contest on Tuesday night, with the Lakers ultimately emerging victorious, 107-99. The game was marked by standout performances from LeBron James and Luka Doncic, as well as a spirited effort from the Mavericks.
James, who has been playing some of the best basketball of his career, turned in a vintage performance, scoring 27 points, grabbing 12 rebounds, and dishing out 3 assists. However, it was his 4th quarter heroics that ultimately sealed the win for the Lakers. James scored 11 points in the final period, including several clutch baskets that helped the Lakers hold off a late Mavericks surge.
“LBJ was incredible tonight,” said Lakers coach Darvin Ham. “He’s been playing at an elite level all season, and tonight was no exception. He made some huge plays down the stretch, and we’re lucky to have him on our team.”
Doncic, who was facing his former team for the first time since being traded to the Mavericks, had a huge triple-double, scoring 19 points, grabbing 15 rebounds, and dishing out 12 assists. He also added 3 steals and played tenacious defense throughout the game.
“Luka was amazing tonight,” said Mavericks coach Jason Kidd. “He’s a special player, and he showed why he’s one of the best in the league. We’re proud of the way he played, and we’re looking forward to seeing him continue to grow and develop as a player.”
The Mavericks, who were led by Kyrie Irving’s 35 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists, gave the Lakers all they could handle. The game was a back-and-forth affair, with neither team able to gain a significant advantage until the 4th quarter.
In the end, it was James’ clutch play and the Lakers’ stifling defense that proved to be the difference. The Lakers held the Mavericks to just 17 points in the 4th quarter, and James’ 11 points in the period helped to seal the win.
“We knew it was going to be a tough game,” said James. “The Mavericks are a great team, and they’ve got a lot of talented players. But we were able to make some big plays down the stretch, and we’re happy to come away with the win.”
The win was a big one for the Lakers, who are looking to make a push for the playoffs. The team has been playing well of late, and the victory over the Mavericks marked their third straight win.
“We’re feeling good right now,” said Lakers guard Austin Reaves, who scored 20 points and dished out 5 assists. “We’re playing some great basketball, and we’re starting to click as a team. We’re looking forward to seeing where this takes us.”
The Mavericks, who fell to 35-25 on the season, were disappointed with the loss, but they were proud of the way they played.
“We gave it everything we had,” said Irving. “We just came up a little short. But we’re not going to hang our heads. We’re going to keep fighting and see where this season takes us.”
The Lakers and Mavericks will meet again on March 17th in Dallas.
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