Luka Dončić put on another scoring clinic, pouring in 43 points to power the Lakers to a 137-130 win over the Pacers on Wednesday night.
Dončić was in complete control offensively, shooting 15-of-30 from the field and knocking down 9 of 10 free throws, all while extending his streak of 30-point performances during the Lakers’ recent surge. Courtside, Caitlin Clark drew attention of her own, working as a credentialed photographer and snapping photos throughout the game.
Austin Reaves added 25 points, LeBron James finished with 23, and Jaxson Hayes contributed 21 points and 10 rebounds as Los Angeles won for the 10th time in its last 11 games. The Lakers, currently third in the Western Conference, bounced back after a loss in Detroit that snapped a nine-game winning streak.
Indiana kept things competitive behind a balanced effort. Pascal Siakam led the way with 20 points, while Jay Huff added 18. T. J. McConnell scored 17 off the bench, and Andrew Nembhard recorded a career-high 19 assists to go with 14 points.
The Lakers seized control early, scoring the game’s first 10 points and never trailing. They built a commanding 29-point lead in the third quarter before the Pacers mounted a late push. Indiana cut the deficit to 131-124 with 45 seconds remaining, but James calmly sank two free throws to halt the rally.
A three-pointer from Jarace Walker brought the Pacers within six with under 30 seconds left, but they couldn’t get any closer down the stretch.
Los Angeles managed the win despite missing Deandre Ayton (back spasms), Rui Hachimura (right calf soreness), and Marcus Smart (right ankle contusion). Smart still made his presence felt, picking up a technical foul from the bench in the second quarter.
For Indiana, Tyrese Haliburton returned to the bench for the first time in a month after dealing with shingles. He remains out for the season following an Achilles injury suffered during last year’s Finals.
Up next: The Lakers host the Brooklyn Nets on Friday, while the Pacers will welcome the Los Angeles Clippers the same night.
