Nick Smith Jr., Lakers Stun Blazers Without Injured Stars
In a jaw-dropping upset, the short-handed Los Angeles Lakers toppled the Portland Trail Blazers 112-108 on Tuesday night—despite missing LeBron James, Luka Dončić, and Austin Reaves. Rookie Nick Smith Jr. erupted for a career-high 28 points, including clutch fourth-quarter heroics, to propel the Lakers to an improbable victory.
Rookie Sensation Nick Smith Jr. Shines
With the Lakers’ “Big Three” sidelined (James: ankle sprain, Dončić: knee soreness, Reaves: illness), the 19-year-old Arkansas product seized the spotlight. Smith Jr. dazzled with 11-of-17 shooting (4 threes), attacking the rim fearlessly in crunch time.
“I just wanted to prove I belong,” Smith Jr. said postgame. “When your number’s called, you gotta be ready.”
Lakers’ Defense Stifles Blazers
While Smith Jr. starred, Anthony Davis (22 pts, 14 rebs, 5 blks) and Taurean Prince (lockdown D on Damian Lillard) anchored a suffocating Lakers defense. Portland shot just 39% from the field and committed 16 turnovers, which L.A. converted into 22 points.
Key Moments:
- Final 3 mins: Smith Jr. hit a step-back three and a steal-and-score to swing momentum.
- Game-sealer: Davis blocked Anfernee Simons’ potential tying layup with 12 seconds left.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
- Lakers (5-2): Proved their depth—critical as they eye a playoff push. James/Dončić updates expected soon.
- Blazers (3-4): Alarm bells after failing to exploit a depleted Lakers squad.
“We didn’t match their intensity,” admitted Blazers coach Chauncey Billups.
Final Takeaway
A night for the underdogs: Nick Smith Jr. announced his arrival, the Lakers flexed resilience, and Portland’s flaws were exposed.
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