The Los Angeles Lakers secured a narrow victory against the Los Angeles Clippers, winning 125-122 in a game that remained close until the final moments. This win allowed the Lakers to split the season series with their city rivals, with each team winning two games against the other. The outcome was decided in a high-scoring contest that saw significant offensive contributions from both sides.
Game Overview
The Lakers led for much of the game, at one point establishing a 15-point lead in the second half. However, the Clippers mounted a comeback, narrowing the deficit and creating a nail-biting finish. Key offensive plays in the final minute by Derrick Jones Jr. brought the Clippers within three points, but the Lakers managed to hold on for the win. The game marked the Lakers' return after the All-Star break.
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Key Performances
Luka Doncic was instrumental for the Lakers, scoring 38 points and dishing out 11 assists. His offensive output, particularly in the fourth quarter where he scored 12 points, was crucial in securing the win. Austin Reaves also provided a significant scoring boost for the Lakers with 29 points. For the Clippers, Kawhi Leonard led the scoring with 31 points on efficient shooting, and Bennedict Mathurin contributed 26 points off the bench. LeBron James added 13 points and 11 assists for the Lakers, though he scored only two points in the second half.
Team Statistics
The Lakers demonstrated strong ball movement, recording 31 assists as a team. The Clippers also had a respectable assist total with 25 assists.
| Statistic | Lakers | Clippers |
|—-|—-|—-|| Points | 125 | 122 || Luka Doncic (LAL) | 38 points, 11 assists | - || Austin Reaves (LAL) | 29 points | - || LeBron James (LAL) | 13 points, 11 assists | - || Kawhi Leonard (LAC) | 31 points | - || Bennedict Mathurin (LAC) | 26 points | - || Derrick Jones Jr. (LAC) | (Key late-game plays) | - |
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Fourth Quarter Dynamics
The final quarter was a test of composure for both teams. Despite the Clippers' late push, led by Jones Jr.'s scoring, the Lakers managed to make necessary plays to maintain their advantage. Doncic's scoring in this period proved to be a decisive factor.
Season Series Split
This victory meant that the Lakers and Clippers each won two games against each other in their four-game season series. This outcome highlights the competitive nature of their matchups throughout the year.
Broader Context
Commentary from figures like Charles Barkley has characterized both the Clippers and Lakers as "mediocre" teams with limited potential for advancement, suggesting neither is a strong contender for championship aspirations. This game's close result might be seen by some as a reflection of this parity.
Sources:
AP News: Luka Doncic scores 38 and the Lakers hold off the Clippers 125-122 to split LA rivals' season series. Published: 37 minutes ago. https://apnews.com/article/lakers-clippers-score-luka-lebron-59997f6a25176a6ee59ec2e963a6b77d
Fadeaway World: Lakers Survive Clippers 125-122: 5 Key Moments That Decided The Outcome. Published: 6 hours ago. https://fadeawayworld.net/nba/los-angeles-lakers/lakers-survive-clippers-125-122-5-key-moments-that-decided-the-outcome
ESPN: Lakers 125-122 Clippers (Feb 20, 2026) Final Score. Seen on: AOL. https://www.espn.com/nba/game?gameId=401810664
Vavel: Points and Highlights for Los Angeles Clippers 122-125 Los Angeles Lakers in NBA Game | 02/21/2026. Published: 6 hours ago. https://www.vavel.com/en-us/nba/2026/02/21/1251422-clippers-vs-lakers-live-score-nba.html
ESPN (PH): Lakers 125-122 Clippers (21 Feb, 2026) Game Stats. Seen on: AOL. https://www.espn.ph/nba/matchup?gameId=401810664
Bakersfield.com (AP): L.A. Lakers 125, L.A. Clippers 122. Published: 1 day ago. https://www.bakersfield.com/ap/sports/l-a-lakers-125-l-a-clippers-122/article73768be2-c518-560f-9e56-ffbaec70170c.html
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