The Los Angeles Lakers showed immense fortitude on Wednesday night. They defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 119-111 in a high-scoring affair. Nick Smith Jr emerged as the star of the game, delivering a season-best performance that included 25 points and six assists, leading his team to victory.
Smith Jr proved he could be a valuable contributor even playing nearly 27 minutes off the bench. On the day, he shot an optimal 10-of-15 from the field, including 5-of-6 from deep. His shooting ability was especially important. With 10 of his 15 points coming in the fourth quarter, he helped the Lakers seal the victory.
The Lakers went into the fourth quarter down but they weren’t down for long. Smith Jr. singlehandedly turned the tide with his contributions coming at the most critical times. He scored two three-pointers in a span of 26 seconds, extending the Lakers’ lead to 117-105. This momentum started an overall 19-4 run that helped Los Angeles seize control of the game.
Rui Hachimura’s 18 points helped the Zags build a surge in the first half. He closed well, scoring 28 points while making the most of an electric 10-of-15 shooting display. His performance, alongside Smith Jr’s, was instrumental in securing the Lakers’ fourth consecutive victory.
Deni Avdija was a force, dropping a season-high 33 points on the ill-equipped Trail Blazers. He added 14 points in the first half, helping Portland to a slim 53-52 advantage at the intermission. Shaedon Sharpe contributed 23 points and seven rebounds, and Jerami Grant scored 18 points to help the Blazers to victory. Deandre Ayton set a season-high in points for his efforts on the night as well.
Avdija had a phenomenal performance and Portland came out red hot. They weren’t able to maintain their cushion against a frisky Lakers team. The game exemplified the Lakers’ ability to respond under pressure and highlighted the emerging talent of Nick Smith Jr as a pivotal player for the team.
