Luka Dončić with 22 points, 9 rebounds, and 15 assists; LeBron James scored 21 points but missed the game-winning shot; Paolo Banchero scored 36 points as the Magic edged the Lakers by 1 point.

On February 25th, during the 25-26 NBA regular season, the Magic narrowly defeated the Lakers 110-109. In this game, Banchero recorded 36 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists; Dončić had 22 points, 9 rebounds, and 15 assists; LeBron James contributed 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists but missed the decisive shot.

Game Statistics

Lakers: Dončić 22 points, 9 rebounds, 15 assists; James 21 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists; Reaves 18 points; Ayton 21 points, 13 rebounds.

Magic: Banchero 36 points, 10 rebounds, 6 assists; Bain 22 points, 6 assists; Carter 20 points, 12 rebounds; DaSilva 13 points.

Game Progress

LeBron James started strong, showcasing excellent form by scoring 10 points early through three-pointers and aggressive drives, leading the Lakers to an early advantage. Following that, Dončić and Kennedy contributed with inside and outside shooting to keep scoring, while the Magic’s offense spread out to chase the score. After Carter’s layup, the Magic trailed 21-23. Towards the end of the quarter, Dončić scored on a drive, hit a three-pointer, and then assisted Vanderbilt for points. The first quarter ended with the Lakers leading 33-25. In the second quarter, the Lakers extended their lead into double digits with a scoring run, but the Magic quickly responded to narrow the gap. Dončić helped the Lakers stabilize the game, but Banchero and Bain kept scoring for the Magic to close in. At halftime, the Lakers led 56-53, with Dončić and James each scoring 12 points.

After the break, Reaves scored repeatedly through three-pointers, mid-range shots, and drives, also assisting James on a dunk as the Lakers opened a 9-0 run. The Magic answered back when Black scored on a drive, closing the gap to 3 points again. The Lakers’ offense continued to spread the floor and increase their lead, but the Magic responded with a scoring run of their own, with Banchero scoring consistently through free throws and jump shots to keep the game tight. After three quarters, the Lakers led 80-79. In the final quarter, both teams exchanged points through threes, drives, and free throws. When Lalavia hit a three-pointer, the score was tied at 98-98. Dončić and Banchero then engaged in a scoring duel. Towards the end, the teams traded points closely, with Bain hitting a three to put the Magic ahead 108-107. In the final seconds, James dunked, Carter followed with a put-back, but the Lakers failed to convert their last possession. Ultimately, the Magic won by a single point.

Starting Lineups

Lakers: Dončić, James, Reaves, Ayton, Smart.

Magic: Banchero, Bain, Carter, DaSilva, Black.