Lakers Hold Off Suns In Close Game; Timberwolves Maintain Winning Streak Without Edwards

Add as a preferred source on Google

The Los Angeles Lakers narrowly defeated the Phoenix Suns 116-114, extending their lead in the Pacific Division. The Lakers, now at 18-7, had a commanding 95-77 lead after a 24-0 run in the fourth quarter. However, Phoenix, with a record of 14-12, surged back and briefly led 114-113 after Dillon Brooks hit a three-pointer with just 12.2 seconds remaining.

LeBron James was fouled by Devin Booker on a three-point attempt with only 3.9 seconds left. James, the NBA's all-time leading scorer, made two out of three free throws to secure the win for Los Angeles. Luka Doncic led the Lakers with 29 points, while James contributed 26 points. DeAndre Ayton added 20 points and grabbed 13 rebounds.

Devin Booker returned to action for Phoenix after missing three games due to a groin injury. He scored 27 points and also provided seven assists and six rebounds. Despite his efforts, the Suns fell short against the Lakers' late-game resilience. The victory increased Los Angeles' division lead over Phoenix to four games.

Meanwhile, the Minnesota Timberwolves continued their strong performance despite missing Anthony Edwards again due to right foot soreness. They secured a 117-103 win over the Sacramento Kings. Julius Randle led Minnesota with 24 points, complemented by Jaden McDaniels' 21 points and Naz Reid's contribution of 20 points and 11 rebounds off the bench.

The Timberwolves improved their record to 17-9 with this victory, marking their seventh win in eight games. Sacramento struggled without their top scorer Zach LaVine, who left in the second quarter due to an ankle injury. The Kings now hold a record of 6-20 following this defeat.

Zion Williamson made his return for the New Orleans Pelicans as they defeated the Chicago Bulls 114-104. This marked Williamson's first game since November due to a right adductor injury. In his limited time on court, he scored 18 points and collected six rebounds over 27 minutes.

Williamson's Impact on Pelicans

The Pelicans achieved consecutive wins for only the second time this season despite being at the bottom of the Western Conference standings with a record of 5-22. Williamson has faced challenges staying healthy since being drafted first overall in 2019, playing just over half of New Orleans' regular-season games since then.

The Bulls have been struggling recently, losing eight out of their last nine games and currently holding a record of 10-15. Their recent slump began with a high-scoring loss against New Orleans in late November.