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Lakers Fall to Magic: Doncic's Hesitation Costs Game

2/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Los Angeles Lakers lost 110-109 to Orlando Magic with 6.7 seconds left, when Luka Doncic hesitated to shoot an open three and passed to LeBron James.
Doncic later admitted, "I probably shouldn't have picked up the ball and just tried to attack."
The loss dropped the Lakers to 34-23 and left them two games ahead of the play-in, while Coach JJ Redick confirmed the play was designed for Doncic.

History

Historical Context

The Los Angeles Lakers won their first NBA championship in 1980, defeating the Philadelphia 76ers 4-2. This victory, marked by Magic Johnson's standout performance in Game 6, initiated the Lakers' dominance in the 1980s, where they captured five titles. The ongoing pressure on current stars like LeBron James reflects the legacy of high-stakes competition that continues to define the NBA.

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Story summary

The Los Angeles Lakers lost 110-109 to Orlando Magic with 6.7 seconds left, when Luka Doncic hesitated to shoot an open three and passed to LeBron James.
Doncic later admitted, "I probably shouldn't have picked up the ball and just tried to attack."
The loss dropped the Lakers to 34-23 and left them two games ahead of the play-in, while Coach JJ Redick confirmed the play was designed for Doncic.

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