LeBron James made two free throws with 3.9 seconds left to seal a 116‑114 victory for the Los Angeles Lakers over the Phoenix Suns, after the Lakers blew a 20‑point lead in the fourth quarter.
Game Overview
The game took place on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at PHX Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. The Lakers entered the final quarter with a 20‑point advantage, but the Suns rallied to cut the deficit to a single point.
Key Moments
With 7:48 remaining in the fourth quarter, Phoenix trailed 99‑79. Dillon Brooks hit a 3‑pointer over LeBron James, giving the Suns a 114‑113 lead with 12.2 seconds left. Brooks bumped James on the way back down the court, earning a second technical foul and an ejection.
The technical foul awarded the Lakers a free throw, which James missed. On the next possession, James was fouled by Devin Booker on a 3‑point attempt with 3.9 seconds left. James missed the first free throw but made the next two, putting the Lakers ahead 115‑114.
Phoenix’s Grayson Allen attempted a buzzer‑beater but missed, allowing the Lakers to hold onto the narrow lead.
Player Performances
LeBron James finished the game with 26 points, including the clutch free throws. Luka Dončić scored 29 points, shooting 7 of 25 from the field and 2 of 14 from beyond the arc.
Deandre Ayton, playing against his former team, tallied 20 points and 13 rebounds. Jaxson Hayes contributed 12 points and a powerful dunk over Oso Ighodaro.
Devin Booker led the Suns with 27 points, returning to the lineup after missing three games with a groin injury. Booker made 13 of 16 free throws.
Game Highlights
- Jaxson Hayes delivered a slam dunk that gave the Lakers a 79‑77 lead with 2:24 left in the third quarter.
- The Lakers ran a 24‑0 run over an eight‑minute span in the third and fourth quarters, ending with a 95‑77 advantage.
- Los Angeles achieved a season‑high 24 offensive rebounds, helping to offset a tough shooting night.
- Phoenix’s loss marked their sixth defeat in nine games.
Game Statistics
- Lakers: 116 points, 24 offensive rebounds
- Suns: 114 points, 27 points from Booker
- Lakers’ offensive rebound total was the highest of the season
- Dončić’s shooting percentage was 28% from the field and 14% from three
Next Games
The Lakers will travel to Utah on Thursday night for their next matchup. The Suns will host the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night.
Key Takeaways
- LeBron James’ two free throws with 3.9 seconds left secured the win.
- The Lakers overcame a 20‑point fourth‑quarter deficit to win by two points.
- Luka Dončić’s 29 points were pivotal, even though his shooting was below season average.
The game showcased the Lakers’ resilience and highlighted key contributions from both veterans and emerging stars. The victory keeps the Lakers competitive in the Western Conference race while the Suns look to rebound in their upcoming games.
Hi, I’m Ethan R. Coleman, a dedicated journalist and content creator at newsoflosangeles.com — your trusted source for the latest news, insights, and stories from Los Angeles and beyond.
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