Lakers beat Clippers 103-85 without Doncic, Williams

The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 103-85 on Wednesday night, securing a win without their two highest-scoring guards.

The victory snapped the Lakers' first losing streak of the season following a Tuesday home loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. The game marked the second night of a back-to-back schedule. The Lakers played without Luka Doncic, who missed the game due to back tightness, and Ziaire Williams, who sat out with a sore left foot.

Coach JJ Redick had prepared his team for nights requiring contributions from players outside the usual rotation. With Doncic absent, attention shifted to Austin Reaves, who has started the season with career-best numbers. Reaves finished with 16 points on 6-of-16 shooting and eight turnovers. His performance ended a four-game streak in which he scored at least 23 points while shooting at least 54 percent from the field.

Clippers coach Ty Lue acknowledged the defensive adjustments made to contain Reaves, calling him elite. The Clippers used aggressive coverages to disrupt his rhythm, limiting his output. Despite the defensive pressure, the Lakers relied on a broader group of contributors to maintain their lead.

Collin Sexton provided the scoring punch, finishing with 21 points. He scored nine consecutive points late in the third quarter, extending the Lakers' lead from 13 points to 20. Quentin Grimes started at the wing for the first time this season and posted a season-high 23 points, along with five assists and four steals. Matisse Thybulle shot 5-for-6 from the floor, including 4-for-6 from three-point range, for 15 points.

Veteran forward Jarred Vanderbilt made his season debut due to the injury situation. He played 21 minutes and finished with a plus-22 plus/minus rating. The Clippers remained short-handed as they have been for much of the season, missing Rui Hachimura, Brandon Ingram, and Bradley Beal.

The Lakers will look to extend their winning streak as they continue their schedule. The win improves their record and provides momentum heading into their next matchup.