The Lakers vs Clippers matchup in the NBA Cup delivered everything expected from a rivalry filled with fire. The game ended 135-118 for the Lakers, but the final score became secondary after Luka Doncic triggered a tense confrontation in the closing minutes. The Slovenian star put up a historic performance with 43 points, 9 rebounds, and 13 assists, yet his night will be remembered for a heated altercation with Kris Dunn that felt like a Real Madrid–Atlético derby, full of tension, complaints, and controversial officiating.
The spark ignited after a collision with Dunn that left Doncic on the floor. When the Lakers star approached to demand an explanation, the Clippers guard reacted poorly. Dunn slammed the ball into Doncic’s chest, sparking a scuffle involving several players. With the scoreboard showing 123-113 and 3:33 left, emotions escalated instantly.
Controversial officiating and a clash loaded with talent
According to Mundo Deportivo, Jaxson Hayes stepped in to defend Doncic. The officials issued a technical foul to Hayes and another to Dunn, which led to Dunn’s ejection because it was his second technical of the night. Doncic walked away without a penalty, raising talk of possible referee leniency. The Slovenian currently leads the NBA in free-throw attempts, averaging 12 per game, and he took 11 in this matchup.
Luka Doncic en el duelo angelino ante los Clippers 💫🤪
🪄43 PUNTOS
🪄12 asistencias
🪄9 rebotesCuarto partido consecutivo con +33 puntos anotados.pic.twitter.com/jKx6cOh0WP
— NBASpain (@NBAspain) November 26, 2025
The altercation overshadowed a game packed with standout performances. Austin Reaves dropped 31 points. LeBron James contributed 25 points with an efficient 9-of-15 shooting night. Doncic exploded early, scoring 32 of his 43 points in the first half. His 8-of-11 shooting from beyond the arc left the Clippers scrambling until Tyronn Lue’s team began doubling him in pick-and-roll actions.
James Harden added 29 points, but it wasn’t enough against a Lakers defense that covered every angle. Kawhi Leonard and Kris Dunn finished with 19 points apiece. The Clippers, the oldest roster in the NBA, ran out of energy in the fourth quarter. They were down by only five entering the final frame but couldn’t keep pace.
The Atlético comparison emerged due to the Clippers’ profile as a competitive but ultimately overmatched team against their more dominant rival. With the NBA Cup representing a real chance at a title, the Clippers couldn’t slow down a red-hot Doncic chasing his first trophy since leaving Real Madrid. Still, the night ended with an uncomfortable takeaway: the fight, and the growing perception that No. 77 walked away untouched.
