Sluggish Lakers Defeated by Short-Handed Hawks, Ending Winning Streak
Luka Doncic contributed 22 points, 11 assists, and five rebounds in 27 minutes, but the Lakers fell 122-102 to an Atlanta Hawks team missing four starters.
Game Overview
Before the game, Lakers coach JJ Redick emphasized the importance of not underestimating the short-handed Hawks, who were without four starters and five key rotation players. Despite this warning, the Lakers failed to deliver the necessary energy and focus from the opening minutes, leading to their first road loss of the season and ending a five-game winning streak.
Key Details
- The Lakers' overall record dropped to 7-3 after the defeat.
- This marked their first loss away from Crypto.com Arena, now standing at 4-1 on the road.
- Coach Redick expressed disappointment:
“Just not a lot to like [on Saturday night].”
Player Performance
Luka Doncic led the Lakers with a strong stat line but struggled at times, committing five of the team’s 20 turnovers. Marcus Smart contributed five points, two assists, and two turnovers in 21 minutes. Neither Doncic nor Smart spoke with reporters after the game.
“Definitely” focusing on not overlooking the short-handed Hawks was emphasized by the Lakers coach before the game.
Author's summary: Despite Luka Doncic's efforts, the Lakers lacked focus and energy against a depleted Hawks squad, ending their five-game winning streak with a decisive home loss.