Lakers Without Their Stars Lose to the Spurs in an Embarrassing Home Performance
This game presented a significant opportunity for Victor Wembanyama, as the San Antonio Spurs capitalized on a depleted Los Angeles Lakers roster to secure a decisive 136-108 victory at Crypto.com Arena. The result echoed the Lakers’ previous meeting with the Spurs on January 7th, 2026, when the Spurs overwhelmed a short-handed Lakers squad 107-91. With San Antonio holding a comfortable lead, the bench showcased emerging talent. Rookie Carter Bryant scored a career-high 16 points and displayed confidence in transition, while Dylan Harper added 15 points, strengthening the backcourt rotation. The Spurs appear ahead of schedule in their development, and continued cohesion could position them as legitimate contenders this season.
Wemby's Historic First Half
Wembanyama did more than lead the Spurs; he dominated the Lakers during the opening 24 minutes. He scored 37 of his 40 total points in the first half, shooting 12 of 17 from the field. The performance marked the highest-scoring half by any NBA player this season and set a Spurs franchise record for the 21st century. The Lakers offered little resistance in the paint, allowing Wembanyama to control the interior with ease. He logged only 27 total minutes, as the outcome was effectively decided by halftime.
A Hospital Ward for the Lakers Roster
Los Angeles fielded a lineup that resembled a G-League rotation due to a significant injury list. Luka Dončić missed his third consecutive game, while LeBron James missed his 18th game of the season, which disqualified him from All-NBA honors for the first time in his 23-year career. By missing this game in his 18th game of the season, LeBron James became ineligible for All-NBA honors under the league’s 65-game minimum rule. This is the first time in 22 years, since his sophomore season in 2004-05, that LeBron will not be named to an All-NBA team. Austin Reaves, Marcus Smart, and Deandre Ayton were also sidelined. A bright spot was Bronny James, who scored 12 points and contributed six assists. Luke Kennard and Drew Timme led the team with 14 points each. San Antonio has now won five consecutive games and continues to climb the Western Conference standings. Los Angeles remains in fifth place, with its immediate focus shifting toward regaining health before the all-star break.
