Sluggish Lakers trounced by short-handed Hawks to end winning streak

Sluggish Lakers Trounced by Short-Handed Hawks to End Winning Streak

Luka Doncic scored 22 points, delivered 11 assists, and grabbed five rebounds in 27 minutes, but the Lakers fell 122-102 to a Hawks team missing four starters.

Lakers Coach Warns Against Underestimating Opponents

Before the game, Lakers coach JJ Redick emphasized the importance of not overlooking the short-handed Atlanta Hawks, who were without four starters and five main rotation players. Despite this, the Lakers failed to show the necessary energy and focus early on.

Game Overview

Within the first two minutes, it became clear the Lakers lacked the intensity needed, contributing to their loss and ending their five-game winning streak. This defeat dropped their overall record to 7-3 and marked their first road loss of the season (4-1 away).

“Just not a lot to like [on Saturday night],” said coach JJ Redick.

Player Performances

Luka Doncic: Led the team with 22 points (4 from 10 in 3-point attempts), 11 assists, and five rebounds, but also committed five of the team's 20 turnovers.
Marcus Smart: Scored five points, had two assists, and two turnovers over 21 minutes.

Neither Doncic nor Smart spoke to reporters after the game.

Author’s summary: The Lakers' lack of intensity against a depleted Hawks squad ended their winning streak, highlighting critical lapses in energy and focus despite Doncic's solid performance.

Orange County Register — 2025-11-09