Celtics vs Lakers: MVP LeBron helps Lakers dismantle defending champions as stars watch on

Lakers crush Celtics 117-96 as LeBron, Davis, and Reaves lead the charge. Boston struggles in key clash of NBA giants.

The Los Angeles Lakers delivered a commanding performance on Thursday night, dismantling the defending NBA champions, the Boston Celtics, 117-96, at Crypto.com Arena.

LeBron James led the charge with 20 points, 14 rebounds, and six assists, including a thunderous dunk in the second quarter that ignited the home crowd.

 

 

 

 

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The Lakers, now six games above .500 at 24-18, sit firmly in fifth place in the Western Conference standings.

The Lakers leaned on a bigger lineup featuring Anthony Davis and Rui Hachimura, a move that proved pivotal. Davis contributed 24 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks, while Hachimura added 10 points and seven rebounds. Austin Reaves continued his strong season with 23 points and six assists, further solidifying his role as a key contributor.

"It just starts with a very professional approach from our team," said Lakers head coach JJ Redick. "That was one of our most complete games of the season, and it came against a high-calibre opponent."

On the defensive end, the Lakers stifled Boston’s star duo. Jayson Tatum managed just 16 points, while Jaylen Brown was held to 17. The Celtics, playing their third game of a four-game road trip, posted their second-lowest point total of the season.

The Lakers’ dominance was evident throughout the contest. They controlled the boards, limited turnovers, and executed on both ends of the floor.

LeBron James praised his team’s execution, saying, "We had a game plan, and we executed it. Defensively, we were in tune with what they wanted to do. Offensively, we shared the ball and made smart decisions."

For Boston, the absence of key players like Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, and Al Horford was felt, though all three are expected to return for future games. Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum struggled to find their rhythm as the Celtics fell to 28-10 on the season.

As always for Lakers games, the stars were out in full showing at the Crypto.com arena. Among these included the couple of Home Alone star Macaulay Culkin and actress Brenda Song.

 

 

 

 

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For the Celtics, the loss halts the momentum of two West Coast victories and adds pressure heading into the final game of their road trip.