Trail Blazers Falter Again: Lakers Dominate Late Without LeBron in Roller-Coaster Showdown

The Portland Trail Blazers aimed to bounce back on Sunday after a demoralizing 42-point loss to the Utah Jazz on Friday. Facing a LeBron James-less Los Angeles Lakers team, the Blazers showed glimpses of improvement but ultimately fell short, losing 107-98 at Crypto.com Arena.

Portland displayed resilience early, taking a 28-22 lead after the first quarter. The team’s energy was evident as they played disciplined basketball, controlling the pace and capitalizing on defensive stops. Center Deandre Ayton shone brightest, recording 14 points and a season-high 19 rebounds, though foul trouble ended his night prematurely in the fourth quarter.

However, the Blazers’ momentum faltered dramatically in the second quarter. The Lakers went on a 15-0 run, sparked by efficient free-throw shooting and sharp play from Rui Hachimura, who had been challenged by coaches to step up in James’ absence. By halftime, the Lakers led 59-45, thanks largely to their 13-of-14 performance at the free-throw line compared to Portland’s 3-of-4.

The Blazers regrouped in the third quarter, fueled by improved defensive intensity. Los Angeles shot just 35% from the field and missed eight of nine three-point attempts in the period. A buzzer-beating shot from Scoot Henderson just beyond half-court brought Portland within three, trailing 77-74 heading into the final quarter.

But the fourth quarter mirrored Portland’s earlier struggles. The Lakers pulled away with clutch shooting and composure, outscoring the Blazers 30-24 in the final frame. Despite 19 points from Shaedon Sharpe, much of his scoring came after the game was already out of reach. Jerami Grant and Anfernee Simons also struggled, combining for just 17 points on dismal shooting.

The loss marks Portland’s eighth defeat in 10 games, dropping their record to 8-16. For the Lakers, now 13-11, the victory snapped a three-game skid and reaffirmed their depth in James’ absence. Meanwhile, the Blazers must address their inconsistency and inability to sustain energy over four quarters.