Follow usD’Angelo Russell showcased a season-high performance with 44 points and nine assists, securing a 123-122 victory for the Los Angeles Lakers against the visiting Milwaukee Bucks. Russell’s go-ahead floater with 5.9 seconds left sealed the win.
Anthony Davis contributed 22 points and 13 rebounds, while Austin Reaves added 18 points, helping the Lakers achieve a 4-2 record since February 28. Despite LeBron James’ absence due to a left ankle injury, the Lakers improved to 5-4 in games without him this season.
Rui Hachimura contributed 12 points, and Spencer Dinwiddie, with just five points, made a crucial defensive play by blocking Damian Lillard’s potential go-ahead shot at the buzzer.
Giannis Antetokounmpo recorded a triple-double with 34 points, 14 rebounds, and 12 assists for the Bucks, but it wasn’t enough to prevent their second consecutive loss after a six-game winning streak. Lillard added 28 points and 12 assists, while Pat Connaughton scored 17 points, and Malik Beasley and Bobby Portis each contributed 14.
The Lakers took control in the third quarter, leading by as many as nine points and entering the final period with a 96-90 advantage. Although the Bucks managed to pull even at 103-103, Russell’s heroics, including his eighth 3-pointer, propelled the Lakers to a 108-103 lead.
Milwaukee made a comeback with a 13-2 run, securing a 118-112 lead with 1:54 remaining. However, Russell’s three-point play brought the Lakers within one at 122-121 with 39.4 seconds left. In a thrilling finish, the Lakers clinched the victory without LeBron James on the court.
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