The Los Angeles Lakers lost 134-128 to the Mavericks in their first game since injuries to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, who were ruled out for the remainder of the season due to injuries. Despite a strong performance from Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg, the Lakers' defense let them down. LeBron James led the Lakers with 30 points, 15 assists and 9 rebounds, while Luke Kennard had 15 points, 16 rebounds, and 11 assists for his first career triple-double. The Lakers lost consecutive games for the first time since February, dropping them to 50-28 on the season, the same record as the Nuggets. The team's loss ensures they won't fall any lower than fifth in the Western Conference.