Sluggish Lakers Trounced by Short-Handed Hawks to End Winning Streak
Luka Doncic scored 22 points, dished out 11 assists, and grabbed five rebounds in 27 minutes, but the Lakers fell 122-102 to the Atlanta Hawks, who were missing four starters.
Game Overview
Atlanta — Before the game, Lakers coach JJ Redick emphasized the importance of not underestimating the shorthanded Hawks, who were without four starters and five key rotation players. Despite this warning, the Lakers failed to match the energy and focus needed.
The Lakers started the season strong even with star forward LeBron James sidelined for all games and additional key players missing three out of their first ten matchups. However, within two minutes of this game, it was clear the team lacked the necessary intensity, resulting in their first road loss of the season and their winning streak ending at five games.
Coach and Player Reactions
"Just not a lot to like [on Saturday night]," said Redick after the loss, which dropped the Lakers to 7-3 overall and 4-1 on the road.
Luka Doncic led the team offensively but also contributed to their problems by committing five of the Lakers' 20 turnovers. Marcus Smart added five points, two assists, and two turnovers in 21 minutes.
Neither Doncic nor Smart spoke to reporters following the game.
Impact and Next Steps
This defeat ended the Lakers' five-game winning streak and marked their first loss outside their home arena, Crypto.com Arena, for the season. The team begins a five-game road trip on a disappointing note, signaling the need for greater focus and effort moving forward.
Summary: Despite Luka Doncic's strong stats, the Lakers lost energy early, ending their winning streak with a 122-102 defeat to a depleted Hawks squad.
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