Tue Dec 30 05:10:00 UTC 2025: Lakers Dominate Kings, End Losing Streak After Team Meeting and Reaves Injury
LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Lakers snapped a three-game losing streak with a resounding 125-101 victory over the Sacramento Kings on Sunday, fueled by a dominant performance from LeBron James and Luka Doncic and a renewed commitment to team defense. The win comes after a frustrating Christmas Day loss and the news of Austin Reaves’ calf injury, which will sideline him for at least four weeks.
James led the charge with an incredibly efficient performance, shooting 11-for-13 from the field for a season-high percentage. Doncic added a game-high 34 points, with 15 of those coming in a pivotal second quarter.
“It definitely starts with us,” said Doncic, acknowledging the need for him and James to lead the team in Reaves’ absence. “We need to show what we can do and if we are going to do it, we both are going to do it. The group is going to follow.”
The victory follows a rare, intensive practice and team meeting held on Saturday, described by Coach JJ Redick as an “idea exchange” designed to refocus the team. The impact was evident as the Lakers outscored the Kings significantly in the third quarter with stifling team defense.
“There were a couple possessions in that 13-2 run where we just started with a five-guys-guarding mentality, and that’s really what we’re after,” Redick said, highlighting the team’s commitment to a unified defensive approach.
Beyond James and Doncic, several Lakers contributed to the win, including Deandre Ayton (11 points, 11 rebounds), Rui Hachimura (12 points), and standout performance from Nick Smith Jr. who scored 21 points.
“We came together, talked about some things,” said LaRavia, emphasizing the team’s improved cohesion. “And if we play like this every night, this is what I talk about when we say, we’re a tough team to beat.”
The victory marks a positive end to a challenging week for the Lakers and a strong finish to James’ year as he approaches his 41st birthday.
First Piper 