Botched final play between Luka, LeBron dooms Lakers vs. Magic - ESPN

ESPN

by Dave McMenamin

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers suffered a heartbreaking 110-109 loss to the Orlando Magic on Tuesday night due to a botched final play involving LeBron James and Luka Doncic. With the game tied at 109, the Lakers called timeout after Wendell Carter Jr.'s putback gave the Magic the lead with 6.7 seconds remaining. On the ensuing inbounds play, Doncic received an open pass from James but hesitated to shoot despite being beyond the 3-point line. Instead of attempting a potential game-winning shot, he dribbled closer and was quickly double-teamed by Paolo Banchero and Anthony Black. Doncic then passed back to James, who launched a 27-foot fadeaway that missed wide left at the buzzer. Both players reflected on the play afterward. Doncic admitted he should have taken the initial shot rather than hesitating due to his struggles from beyond the arc (2-for-10 in the game). James, despite believing he had a good look, acknowledged he was off-balance and didn't rhythm with the ball, allowing the Magic's defense to recover. This missed opportunity sealed the Lakers' fate, as they blew a 12-point second-half lead for the first time this season when leading after three quarters. The game also featured other critical moments that cost the Lakers. LeBron James missed a free throw with 44.7 seconds left that would have put Los Angeles up by three. The Magic's Desmond Bane capitalized on the next possession, drilling a 3-pointer to tie the game. Later, Ayton failed to secure a defensive rebound after Banchero's miss, leading to Carter's go-ahead putback with 6.7 seconds remaining. The loss dropped the Lakers to 4-4 during their eight-game homestand, despite facing strong competition like the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors in upcoming games. Deandre Ayton expressed frustration over the home losses but remained focused on improving ahead of the road stretch. The game highlights the fine margins that decide close contests and underscores

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/25/2026