Austin Reaves’ go-ahead layup with just one second remaining sealed a memorable triple-double performance, while LeBron James continued to build on his Christmas Day legacy with a strong showing as the Los Angeles Lakers triumphed over the Golden State Warriors 115-113 in a thrilling matchup on Wednesday night in San Francisco.
Despite facing the setback of losing Anthony Davis to a left ankle injury early in the game, the Lakers displayed resilience and determination, maintaining control for the majority of the final three quarters to secure their fourth win in five games.
With a nine-point lead at 109-100, James showcased his playmaking abilities by setting up Max Christie for a crucial basket with 1:30 left on the clock. However, Stephen Curry, the ever-dangerous sharpshooter for the Warriors, almost singlehandedly orchestrated a late comeback.
Following impactful plays from Jonathan Kuminga and Dennis Schroder that narrowed the gap, Curry showcased his scoring prowess by sinking a layup and then hitting two remarkable 3-pointers in the final 12.2 seconds, including a game-tying 31-foot shot with just 7.6 seconds remaining.
In the decisive moments, the Lakers adjusted their strategy as the Warriors focused their defensive efforts on James. This led to Reaves, seizing the opportunity without hesitation, aggressively driving to the basket and converting a contested layup to secure the victory for the Lakers.
LeBron James, the leading scorer in NBA Christmas games, delivered a standout performance by scoring 31 points on 12-of-22 shooting, while also contributing 10 assists and two steals, tying for the game-high in assists.
Stepping up in the absence of Davis, Reaves excelled with 26 points, including four made 3-pointers, along with a team-leading 10 rebounds and 10 assists, earning his third career triple-double and first of the current season.
Contributions from Rui Hachimura with 18 points, Christie with 16 points, and Dalton Knecht with 13 points further bolstered the Lakers’ offensive effort. The team continued its tradition of appearing on the NBA’s Christmas Day lineup for the 26th consecutive season.
Despite the loss, Curry showcased his scoring prowess with a game-high 38 points, fueled by eight made 3-pointers, matching the NBA record for most 3-pointers in a Christmas Day game. Andrew Wiggins provided valuable support with 21 points, completing a double-double with 12 rebounds.
Kuminga added 14 points to the Warriors’ effort, while Schroder and Trayce Jackson-Davis contributed 11 points each. Draymond Green made his presence felt on the defensive end with 10 rebounds, six assists, four blocks, and three points.
The Warriors suffered their fifth defeat in six games, highlighting the challenges they faced against a resilient Lakers squad that overcame adversity and executed under pressure to secure a hard-fought victory in a thrilling Christmas Day contest.
