The Los Angeles Lakers finally received their first defeat at home after a devastating game-winner from Franz Wagner, who pushed Orlando Magic on Friday (November 22), 119-118.
Davis and Lakers Choking Big Time; Wagner Makes Clutch Basket
Despite a stellar display of talent, the loss still boiled down to Anthony Davis’ costly mistake at the end of regulation. The Lakers were up by two, 118-116, with just 19 seconds left to play. They even looked like they had the chance to extend the lead and seal the win with Davis going to the free-throw line. Unfortunately, he missed both attempts, allowing the Magic to have an opportunity with ample time to make a play. And then, the expected happened. The ball went to Franz Wagner, who made a clutch step-back three over Cam Reddish. The European star sank the biggest shot in his career leaving fans of the purple and gold in shock.
Wagner, who has taken the mantle with Paolo Banchero out, finished with 37 points, 11 assists, and 6 rebounds. Meanwhile, defensive specialist Jalen Suggs cracked his first 20-point game this season after firing 23 points on top of 5 assists, 5 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. Mo Wagner also chipped in 19 points.
On the other hand, LeBron James and Anthony Davis combined for 70 points but fell short against a .500 Eastern team. LBJ went up for 31 points, 7 assists, and 10 rebounds while AD caught 39 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 blocks. The Lakers are now 10-5 but get to keep their seat at the 4th seed.
The LA Lakers will stay at home to face their rivals, the Denver Nuggets, on Sunday (November 24).
Meanwhile, the Magic (10-7) will return to Orlando on Sunday after a back-to-back split in Los Angeles (lost against the Clippers but won over the Lakers).
