NBA Results: Nick Smith Jr., from vomiting to giving Lakers the win without Doncic or Reaves

Juan López | Tue, 11/04/2025 - 07:40

Nick Smith Jr., new sensation of the Los Angeles Lakers.

The absences of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves did not prevent Los Angeles Lakers from adding another victory. Despite being severely depleted, the Los Angeles team defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 123-115 thanks to the outstanding performance of Deandre Ayton, who scored 29 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, and blocked three shots against his former team.

Rui Hachimura also shined with 28 points, while young Nick Smith Jr., on a two-way contract, was crucial in the final stretch by hitting two decisive three-pointers and finishing with 25 points. Smith, despite having a fever and vomiting at halftime, made it clear that he was not going to back down: "There was no way I was going to miss this game. I had the option to play and compete." The Lakers, who only had nine players available, secured their fourth consecutive victory.

Doncic could not participate as a precaution due to discomfort in his left leg stemming from a contusion that had already caused him to miss three games this season. The Slovenian had just recorded a triple-double (29 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists) in Sunday's win against Miami. Reaves, on the other hand, was sidelined due to a discomfort in his right groin after his brilliant performance against the Heat, where he scored 26 points and dished out 11 assists.

Ayton, who played for the last two seasons in Portland, was doubtful until the last minute due to back spasms, but he ultimately took to the court and led the team. In the Blazers, Deni Avdija was the top scorer with 33 points, although his performance was not enough to prevent the end of Portland's three-game winning streak.

Portland had a 13-point lead in the first half (39-26 after a dunk by Jerami Grant), but the Lakers reacted before halftime, reducing the deficit to 55-52. In the third quarter, a 10-1 run capped by a basket from Marcus Smart put the Angelinos ahead (68-66).

The LA team entered the final period with a lead (90-86), and although the Blazers got close at 97-96 with a layup by Jrue Holiday, the home team held on. Another effort from Ayton under the basket extended the lead to 107-100, securing the victory. Next game for Los Angeles Lakers against the San Antonio Spurs.