LeBron scores 26 and Lakers Thrash Clippers 122-97 with Luka Doncic Looking on the Bench

LeBron James had 26 points, nine assists and eight rebounds, and Luka Doncic then approved from the bench, while Los Angeles Lakers smashed Los Angeles Clippers 122-97 on Tuesday night.

Doncic clapped and occasionally fist-pumped under Lakers’ excellent performance in their first match since making the seismic trade to acquire the All-NBA scoring champion in exchange for Star Big Man Anthony Davis. James and Doncic, close to a return from a strained calf, sat next to each other and spoke at times.

Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura scored 20 points per Lakers ‘victory was their first at the Intuit Dome, their Crosstown Rivals’ sparkling new arena.

Norman Powell scored 20 points for Clippers (28-22), who fell two games behind Lakers in fifth place (29-19) in the West.

James Harden went 2 out of 12 for seven points, and Kawhi Leonard scored only 11 before both stars took off the fourth quarter.

Bronny James hit his first NBA 3-Pointer while playing the last six minutes.

Patty Mills and Drew Eubanks played the last seven minutes in their debut with Clippers who acquired the veterans on Saturday from Utah.

Takeaways

Clippers: A lifeless effort in their return from a four-game trip. Owner Steve Ballmer had suffered to cheer.

Lakers: The results were brilliant, but the method was also impressive. They fought and worked on defense – something they have to do every night without Davis.

Keying moment

Lakers set 45 points in the first quarter – the most they have managed in any period this season.

Key State

Lakers did not make a turnover until midway through the second quarter.

Up next

Lakers hosts Warriors Thursday. Clippers hosts Pacers on Thursday.