The latest chapter of the Battle of LA delivered drama, momentum swings, and a superstar performance. The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 118-114 at Intuit Dome on February 21, 2026.
The night belonged to Luka Doncic, who produced a dominant all-around performance and took control in the closing minutes. However, the game also brought a major concern for the Clippers as Kawhi Leonard left late in the fourth quarter with an ankle injury.
The contest remained tight throughout. The Clippers held an eight-point lead in the fourth quarter, but the momentum shifted when Luka knocked down three consecutive three-pointers. His scoring burst in the final minutes helped the Lakers close the game strongly.
LUKA DONCIC VS CLIPPERS
— Termo De Doncic (@LukaDoncic_arg) February 21, 2026
38 PTS
6 REB
11 AST
3 STL
1 BLK
8/14 3s
+6
MVPpic.twitter.com/obx3JvKuwI
With 3:42 remaining, Kawhi Leonard landed awkwardly and suffered a left ankle injury. After his exit, the Clippers struggled to maintain rhythm, and the Lakers capitalized to seal the win.
Final Score: Lakers 118 – Clippers 114
Luka Doncic Performance (Lakers)
| Category | Stats |
|---|---|
| Points | 37 |
| Field Goals | 13/24 (54.2%) |
| Three-Pointers | 6/11 |
| Free Throws | 5/6 |
| Rebounds | 8 |
| Assists | 11 |
| Steals | 2 |
| Minutes | 38 |
Doncic scored 12 points in the final four minutes, including two clutch three-pointers that changed the outcome.
Kawhi Leonard Injury Update
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Points Before Injury | 28 |
| Shooting | 10/18 FG |
| Injury Time | 3:42 left in 4th quarter |
| Diagnosis | Lower ankle sprain |
| Status | Further evaluation after MRI |
The Clippers’ coaching staff confirmed that Leonard is a key part of their plans and his recovery will be handled cautiously.
Other Key Performances
Lakers
- LeBron James: 24 points, 9 rebounds, 7 assists
- Anthony Davis: 16 points, 12 rebounds, 3 blocks
- Austin Reaves: 18 points with strong late defense
Clippers
- Bennedict Mathurin: 22 points (bench)
- Derrick Jones Jr.: 15 points
- James Harden: 12 points, 8 assists
Impact on Standings
| Team | Record | Conference Position | Recent Form |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lakers | 29-26 | 7th (West) | 3 straight wins |
| Clippers | 27-29 | 10th (West) | 2 straight losses |
The win strengthens the Lakers’ push toward playoff positioning, while the Clippers face pressure with injuries and inconsistent form.
Upcoming Schedule
| Team | Next Opponent | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Lakers | Minnesota Timberwolves | February 23 |
| Clippers | Denver Nuggets | February 24 |
The upcoming games will be crucial for both teams as the Western Conference race remains tight.
Key Players to Watch
Luka Doncic (Lakers)
His playmaking and clutch scoring are already transforming the Lakers’ offense. If this form continues, he could become the team’s primary late-game option.
LeBron James
Still contributing across all areas, LeBron’s leadership and experience remain vital during the playoff push.
Anthony Davis
His defensive presence and rebounding are key to the Lakers’ balance.
Kawhi Leonard (Clippers)
His injury status will be the biggest factor for the Clippers’ short-term future.
James Harden & Bennedict Mathurin
With Kawhi uncertain, their scoring and playmaking responsibility may increase.
This victory could be a turning point for the Lakers. Luka’s growing chemistry with the team, combined with strong support from LeBron and Davis, gives them momentum at a crucial stage of the season.
For the Clippers, the focus now shifts to Kawhi Leonard’s recovery. His availability could decide how their season unfolds in the competitive Western Conference.
