In a thrilling encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the Los Angeles Lakers secured a commanding 135-118 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers in the NBA Cup group stage, marking a significant milestone for the purple and gold. The game, played on November 25, 2025, showcased the intensity and rivalry between the two Los Angeles giants, with Luka Doncic emerging as the standout performer.
The Lakers, led by the exceptional play of Doncic, who scored 43 points, 9 rebounds, and 13 assists, dominated the third and fourth quarters to pull away from a competitive first half. The Clippers, despite their efforts, struggled to keep up with the Lakers' relentless offense and strong defensive play. Austin Reaves also had a notable performance, finishing with 31 points, while LeBron James contributed 25 points to the Lakers' victory.
The win secured the Lakers' spot at the top of Group B in the Emirates NBA Cup, ensuring their advancement to the knockout rounds. This victory not only solidifies the Lakers' position in the tournament but also highlights their ongoing dominance in the city rivalry. The Lakers hold a 107-66 advantage in the all-time series against the Clippers, with this latest win further cementing their status as the top team in Los Angeles.
For the Clippers, the loss was a setback in their quest to advance in the NBA Cup. The injury-depleted Clippers entered the game with high stakes, knowing that a loss would significantly impact their chances of moving forward in the tournament. Despite their best efforts, the Lakers' superior performance on the court proved too much to overcome.
Looking ahead, the Lakers will continue their journey in the NBA Cup, aiming to replicate this level of performance in their upcoming matches. The Clippers, on the other hand, will be looking to regroup and bounce back from this defeat as they strive to secure a spot in the knockout rounds. The city of Los Angeles will be eagerly watching as the rivalry between these two teams continues to unfold.
With Luka Doncic's stellar performance and the Lakers' dominant win, the NBA Cup group stage has provided an exhilarating start to the tournament. The intensity and competitiveness of this matchup underscore the depth of talent and the fierce rivalry that exists between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers.
