SALT LAKE CITY — Lauri Markkanen put on a stellar performance, tallying 32 points along with a season-high three steals as the Utah Jazz triumphed over the Los Angeles Lakers with a score of 131-119 on Wednesday night.
Jordan Clarkson contributed significantly with 21 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists, aiding the Jazz in breaking a three-game losing streak. Meanwhile, Keyonte George provided a strong offensive support off the bench with 20 points, 10 assists, and seven rebounds.
On the Lakers’ side, LeBron James finished with 18 points, accompanied by seven assists and six rebounds. Rory Hachimura led his team in scoring with 19 points, while Luka Doncic added 16 points to the scoreboard. Additionally, Austin Reaves played a pivotal role, contributing 15 points and 11 assists.
Utah established a 56-45 advantage late in the second quarter, thanks in part to a 19-6 scoring run that featured consecutive alley-oop dunks by Walker Kessler. Kessler also made a notable impact defensively, registering a season-high five blocks before halftime.
As the third quarter commenced, James and Reaves each capitalized on Jazz turnovers to hit back-to-back three-pointers, narrowing the gap to 74-69. However, the Lakers were unable to close the distance any further.
Clarkson ignited a dominant 22-2 run for Utah, converting on three consecutive layups, and Kessler capped it with a tip-in dunk, widening the gap to 96-71 with under four minutes left in the third quarter. During this stretch, Los Angeles struggled offensively, managing just one basket over five minutes until Hachimura hit a three-pointer that sparked a run of five consecutive field goals for the Lakers.
In terms of takeaways from the game, it is worth noting that Bronny James achieved a career-high nine points within the fourth quarter for the Lakers. For the Jazz, they have now secured victories in three of their last four home games, matching their win total from the first 20 home matches.
A pivotal moment in the game occurred during the third quarter when Utah managed to pull away by scoring on eight consecutive possessions, contributing to their decisive 22-2 run.
Another notable statistic from the game is that Isaiah Collier registered nine assists, marking his sixth consecutive game with nine or more assists.
Looking ahead, the Lakers will be hosting the Charlotte Hornets on February 19, while Utah prepares to face the Los Angeles Clippers in their upcoming game on Thursday.
