PORTLAND, Ore. — In a thrilling match on Thursday, the Los Angeles Lakers triumphed over the Portland Trail Blazers with a score of 110-102. LeBron James was phenomenal, scoring 40 points, including eight consecutive points in a decisive fourth-quarter run. Austin Reaves also contributed significantly with 32 points. The Lakers played without their guard Luka Doncic, who is still sidelined as he recuperates from a calf strain.

Deni Avdija was the standout player for the Blazers, earning 28 points in the contest. The climax of the game came in the fourth quarter when the Blazers managed to tie the score at 81. Reaves responded quickly with a scoop shot to reclaim the lead for the Lakers. Following an unproductive possession by Portland, James showcased his skills by sinking a three-pointer, extending the Lakers’ lead to 86-81. He followed that with another three-pointer, bringing the score to 89-81, and capped his personal run with a fadeaway jumper, totaling eight straight points during a key stretch that put pressure on the Blazers to call a timeout.

Out of the timeout, James continued to maintain the momentum, hitting another jumper that extended the Lakers’ lead to 95-86. Reaves then added to their advantage by converting three free throws, pushing the score to 99-89 and solidifying the team’s position.

In terms of insights, Lakers’ coach JJ Redick commended James for his leadership and connection with Doncic. He noted, “I think he’s been fantastic since we got Luka and just in terms of his engagement and his ability to connect with him. He’s willing to sacrifice for the team and has been fully committed for several months.”

On the Blazers’ side, rookie center Donovan Clingan has been averaging 16 minutes per game and with Deandre Ayton’s injury, the team feels he is ready for an increased role. Clingan finished with six points and six rebounds in this matchup.

Some critical moments included James throwing down a two-handed slam with 7:25 left in the second quarter, giving the Lakers their largest lead at 40-22, and his scoring outburst in the fourth quarter that proved essential to the team’s victory.

A key statistic from the game revealed that the Blazers struggled at the free-throw line, making 14 of 21 attempts (67%), while the Lakers excelled with a 23 of 25 success rate (92%).

Looking ahead, the Lakers are set to face the Denver Nuggets on Saturday night, while the Blazers will host the Charlotte Hornets that same evening.