LeBron James scored 40 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a thrilling 110-102 victory against the Portland Trail Blazers on February 20, 2025. James’ performance was especially notable as he sank eight consecutive points during the fourth quarter, ensuring the Lakers overcame the hosts and regained their momentum after previous setbacks.
The Lakers entered the match without star guard Luka Doncic, who is sidelined with a calf strain. Despite missing Doncic and Jarred Vanderbilt, the Lakers managed to pull off this important win against the Trail Blazers, who had gained momentum as one of the hottest teams in the league.
The game began on shaky ground for the Lakers, who missed their first six shots. Austin Reaves eventually provided the spark with a three-point play, followed by Jaxson Hayes delivering a powerful dunk to help bring the Lakers to a 17-8 lead. By the end of the first quarter, Reaves had already made his mark with 12 points, assisting the Lakers to take a commanding 28-15 lead.
James, known for his ability to escalate during pivotal moments, switched to attack mode after the first quarter. Still, the Trail Blazers managed to stay close, launching their own 9-0 run to cut the lead. At halftime, the Lakers held onto their lead, 55-47.
The second half saw the Lakers struggle with turnovers, allowing Deni Avdija to score 14 points consecutively for Portland, bringing the score to 78-77 as the teams entered the fourth quarter. The game became increasingly physical, with both sides contesting every possession fiercely. Nonetheless, James steered the Lakers through these challenges.
Early in the fourth quarter, Dorian Finney-Smith opened with a triple for the Lakers, giving them breathing room. Following up, James made his presence known with back-to-back buckets, igniting an 8-0 run. The Blazers, determined not to back down, continued pressing and forcing turnovers, bringing tension to the closing minutes.
What was remarkable was James’ ability to deliver when it mattered most. After Portland tied the game at 81, Reaves reclaimed the lead with a scoop shot. From there, James made pivotal 3-pointers along with a fadeaway jumper, extending the Lakers' lead. Reaves then completed the offensive effort by sinking three free throws, widening the gap to a comfortable 99-89.
JJ Redick, the Lakers’ head coach, praised James' contribution not just strategically but also his nurturing style with Luka Doncic. "He’s going to sacrifice as much as anybody. He’s on the train, full go and he’s been all the way there for several months," Redick remarked. Such comments reflect the synergy developing within the team, which could be pivotal as they march through the season.
The Blazers displayed moments of individual brilliance, most prominently from Deni Avdija, who finished the night with 28 points, contributing to the competitive nature of the game. Rookie center Donovan Clingan, stepping up due to the injury of Deandre Ayton, added six points and assisted on rebounds during his 16 minutes on the court.
Despite the scoreline, the match wasn't without its blemishes for the Lakers, who turned over the ball 22 times. Yet, it was their shooting accuracy from the free-throw line, where they achieved 92% (23-25), compared to the Blazers' 67% (14-21), which played a significant role in their victory.
With this win, the Lakers improved to 33-21 for the season. The upcoming challenge looms as they prepare to visit the Denver Nuggets next, with hopes of continuing their ascent back to prominence. Meanwhile, the Trail Blazers will host the Charlotte Hornets on the same night, seeking to bounce back from this defeat.