The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 103-87 on Wednesday night at Intuit Dome, overcoming the absences of two starters due to injury. Luka Doncic (back tightness) and Ziaire Williams (left foot soreness) did not play, marking Doncic’s first missed game of the season. The Lakers improved to 4-1 with the win, while the Clippers fell to 2-3.
Collin Sexton led the Lakers with 21 points, including 11 in the third quarter, as Los Angeles built a 22-point lead in the second half. Quentin Grimes (23 points), Austin Reaves (16 points), and Matisse Thybulle (15 points) also contributed offensively. Defensively, the Lakers held the Clippers to 87 points, limiting them to 38% shooting.
The Lakers’ depth acquisitions over the summer were tested in this contest, with multiple bench players stepping up. Sexton’s energy and effort were highlighted as key factors in the victory, particularly after the team’s 136-129 loss to Portland on Tuesday—its first defeat of the season. The Lakers, playing their second game in 48 hours, relied on a balanced attack to secure the win.
Doncic and Williams were ruled out for the Clippers game after both reported soreness following the Portland loss. Doncic, the NBA’s leading scorer at 36 points per game, has been the focal point of the Lakers’ offense, while Williams contributes as a perimeter shooter and defender. Their absences forced other players to assume larger roles.
Austin Reaves took on increased offensive responsibility, finishing with 16 points and continuing his strong start to the season. The Lakers’ coaching staff adjusted rotations to account for the missing starters, with JJ Redick emphasizing championship-level defense despite the offensive focus.
The Clippers, who had additional rest entering the game, were unable to overcome the Lakers’ early lead. Los Angeles’ defense, particularly in the third quarter, stifled Los Angeles’ crosstown rivals, limiting them to 19 points in the period. The Lakers’ bench outscored the Clippers’ reserves 34-18, underscoring the depth that has been a strength this season.