Luka Dončić's triple-double powers Lakers comeback in Utah

The Lakers' comeback in the fourth against the Jazz behind a 45-point triple-double from Luka Dončić.

Dec 18, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward/guard Luka Doncic (77) celebrates after scoring a three point basket during the second half against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center.
Dec 18, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward/guard Luka Doncic (77) celebrates after scoring a three point basket during the second half against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center.

UTAH — The Lakers survived the Jazz 143-135 in Utah on Thursday night behind 45 points, 14 assists and 11 rebounds from Luka Dončić, his third triple-double of the season, pushing Los Angeles to a 19-7 record.

This is the 84th triple-double of Dončić's career and his 10th 40-point triple-double, joining James Harden, Oscar Robertson and Russell Westbrook as the only players in NBA history to have that feat.

It also marks the first 40-point triple-double by a Laker since Magic Johnson, who did it back in 1981---also against the Jazz.

It was the most points the Lakers surrendered this season, but it was also the most points they've scored, outscoring the Jazz 41-29 in the fourth quarter.

The Jazz held the lead for the majority of the first three quarters behind Keyonte George, who poured in 34 points (eight assists). Then an early surge to start the fourth pushed the Lakers back to their first lead since 4-3 to open the game.

The Lakers only made seven 3s (on 25% shooting) throughout the first three quarters and then turned it around on six-of-11 shooting from deep in the fourth. 

The Lakers had six players finish in double figures, five coming from the starting unit. LeBron James had 28 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds on the night.

The road win pushes the Lakers to 12-3 on the road this season with three wins over the last four games. They have the Clippers next up on Saturday at Intuit Dome for the first time this season, facing a Clippers team that has been disappointing at 6-21.

Category: General Sports