Luka Doncic scored 52 points, marking the first 50-point performance of the NBA season, to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 132-123 victory over the Utah Jazz on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026, at the Delta Center. Doncic's performance, which included eight three-pointers, helped Los Angeles overcome an 18-point second-quarter deficit to secure the win in Salt Lake City.
Doncic's Scoring Outburst
Doncic's scoring outburst was highlighted by several clutch shots late in the fourth quarter. He hit a tying three-pointer with 4:06 remaining in the final period and contributed to a 14-5 go-ahead run with back-to-back three-pointers that gave the Lakers a 127-121 lead with 1:42 left, according to reports from the Associated Press and NBA.com.
In addition to his 52 points, Doncic recorded 10 assists and seven rebounds. His performance follows a difficult game in his previous matchup against the Clippers, where he recorded 23 points, seven assists, and 11 turnovers. Lakers coach JJ Redick noted that Doncic is still finding his rhythm after not playing with the national team over the summer.
Lakers Overcome Early Deficit
Austin Reaves provided significant support for the Lakers, finishing the game with 29 points. Reaves hit a decisive three-pointer with 34 seconds remaining to extend the Lakers' lead to seven points. Together, Doncic and Reaves combined to shoot 21 of 24 on free throws during the contest.
The Lakers' victory was bolstered by a strong second-half effort after trailing by 18 points in the second quarter. The team struggled early, giving up 16 second-chance points on six offensive rebounds during the first quarter. However, the Lakers' backcourt helped shift the momentum, including a halftime flurry from Doncic that ended with a stepback three-pointer to give Los Angeles a 74-71 lead.
Kessler's Return to Utah
The game featured a notable return for Walker Kessler, who appeared in his first game back in Utah since being sent to Los Angeles in a July sign-and-trade deal. The deal, which the Los Angeles Times reported cost the Lakers two first-round picks, two first-round pick swaps, and a four-year, $130-million contract, saw Kessler held to just two points on one-of-two shooting with seven rebounds.
Despite the high expectations following his arrival in Los Angeles, Kessler remained quiet during his return to Salt Lake City. He picked up his fourth foul with 7:38 remaining in the third quarter. Jazz coach Will Hardy stated that the game was not specifically about Kessler, emphasizing that the team intended to maintain their established standards regardless of the player's history with the franchise.
Jazz Performance Summary
The Utah Jazz saw a strong performance from Lauri Markkanen, who scored 28 points to lead the team. Keyonte George contributed 24 points, nine rebounds, and 10 assists, while Jaren Jackson Jr. added 20 points. Ace Bailey also recorded 17 points and 12 rebounds for the Jazz.
Other contributors for Utah included Jaren Jackson Jr., who added 20 points, and Isaiah Collier, who finished with six points and three assists. The Jazz, who are currently in rebuilding mode, were unable to maintain their second-quarter lead as the Lakers' offense surged in the second half.
Upcoming Schedule
The Lakers' win on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026, marks their eighth victory in their last nine games against the Jazz. Following this matchup, the Lakers are scheduled to host the Portland team on Tuesday. The Jazz will next host the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday.
Season Outlook
The Lakers continue their season with a 3-0 record. The Jazz will look to rebound from their Sunday loss as they continue their rebuilding efforts.
