Context:

Portland extended its unbeaten run to start the season by holding off the Los Angeles Lakers 136-129, with Ja Morant and Deni Avdija each scoring 23 and Damian Lillard adding a decisive clutch 3 late in the fourth. Luka Dončić exploded for 41 points for the Lakers, fueling a comeback that briefly trimmed a double-digit Portland lead but could not derail the Blazers’ balanced, late-game execution. The win, Portland’s second 3-0 start in 15 years under new coach Micah Nori, hinged on timely baskets from Morant and Lillard as the defense tightened in crunch time. The result underscored Portland’s depth and resilience, even as Dončić continued his high-volume, 50-point-capable form. Looking ahead, Portland hosts Memphis while Los Angeles heads to the Clippers.

Dive Deeper:

• Ja Morant and Deni Avdija each poured in 23 points for the Blazers, featuring crucial baskets in the final minutes to steady the lead.

• Damian Lillard contributed 21 points and drilled a go-ahead 3 with 43 seconds left, finishing off the Lakers in a tight closing stretch.

• Luka Dončić scored 41 points and dished nine assists for the Lakers, including six 3-pointers and a noticeable defensive engagement, but his team still fell short.

• Portland improved to 3-0 this season, marking the franchise’s second three-win start in the last 15 years under head coach Micah Nori, with a late 15-8 run sealing the victory.

• Austin Reaves led the Lakers with 26 points and Sandro Mamukelashvili added 17, providing a strong support cast but not enough to overcome Portland’s balance and late efficiency.

• Dončić’s 16 points in the first quarter helped keep the Lakers competitive, while Portland’s defense limited LA’s scoring efficiency in the middle portions of the game.