In a stunning display of individual brilliance, Luka Doncic powered the Los Angeles Lakers to a thrilling 143-135 comeback victory over the Utah Jazz on Thursday night, December 18, 2025 (Friday, December 19, Philippine Time). The superstar guard recorded a masterful 45 points, 14 assists, and 11 rebounds for his fifth triple-double of the season.
Lakers Rally Behind Doncic's Heroics
The game was a high-scoring affair, with the Jazz shooting an impressive 65% from the field and holding a 78-73 lead at halftime. However, the Lakers seized control in the final period, outscoring Utah 41-29. Despite briefly tweaking his knee and taking a shot to the jaw, LeBron James contributed significantly with 28 points and 10 assists.
Utah closed the gap to 134-130 late in the game, but Doncic found Jaxson Hayes for a crucial basket to seal the win. Hayes was perfect from the field, going 7-of-7 for 16 points, continuing his remarkable career efficiency against the Jazz. The Lakers were missing starters Deandre Ayton and Austin Reaves, while Utah played without leading scorer Lauri Markkanen.
Raptors Halt Bucks' Slide, Blazers Win OT Thriller
In other NBA action, the Toronto Raptors defeated the struggling Milwaukee Bucks 111-105. Brandon Ingram led the Raptors with 29 points, while Scottie Barnes added 24 points and 11 rebounds. The Bucks, playing a fifth straight game without the injured Giannis Antetokounmpo, have now lost 12 of their last 15 contests.
The night's most dramatic finish belonged to the Portland Trail Blazers, who edged the Sacramento Kings 134-133 in overtime. Deni Avdija scored 35 points, capping his night with two game-winning free throws with just 1.5 seconds left in the extra period.
League-Wide Results
A full slate of games provided plenty of excitement across the association. Key results from December 18 include:
- Charlotte Hornets beat Atlanta Hawks 133-126
- New York Knicks edged Indiana Pacers 114-113
- Oklahoma City Thunder routed LA Clippers 122-101
- Denver Nuggets defeated Orlando Magic 126-115
- Dallas Mavericks beat Detroit Pistons 116-114 in OT
- Phoenix Suns nipped Golden State Warriors 99-98
The Lakers' victory marks their third win in four games, providing a boost as they navigate injuries to key players. Meanwhile, the Jazz, despite a 33-point outing from Keyonte George, have yet to win three consecutive games this season.
