On January 18, 2026 the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Toronto Raptors 112‑108. LeBron James, returning from an ankle sprain, scored crucial points in the final minutes, while Luka Dončić added a clutch three‑pointer. The victory improves the Lakers to 6‑2 on the season and highlights lingering defensive issues that both teams must address.
Game Recap
First Quarter Overview
Toronto opened strong, limiting Los Angeles to 20 points and taking a 28‑22 lead. Rookie guard Jaden Smith contributed a 12‑point burst, and Dennis Schroder hit 4‑of‑6 from three‑point range.
Second Quarter Turnaround
LeBron James, back from a left‑ankle sprain, sparked the Lakers with 22 points, 9 assists and 7 rebounds, including a momentum‑shifting three‑point play. New acquisition Luka Dončić added 19 points and 8 assists, giving Los Angeles a halftime edge.
Final Minutes
With the score tied at 84‑84 entering the fourth, the Lakers capitalized on Toronto’s poor three‑point shooting (2‑of‑9). James drew a foul with 3:12 left and sank both free throws, Dončić hit a step‑back three, and James sealed the win with a fast‑break dunk, finalizing the 112‑108 score.
Key Injuries and Lineup Changes
- Lakers: Marcus Morris (right‑knee tendinitis) and Rui Hachimura (Grade‑2 hamstring strain) were inactive. D’Angelo Russell contributed 7 points off the bench.
- Raptors: Scottie Barnes (elbow sprain) and Gary Payton II (calf strain) missed the game. Jaden Smith logged a career‑high 31 minutes.
Season Implications
The win moves the Lakers to 6‑2, keeping them within one game of the Pacific Division leader and showcasing the developing chemistry of James, Dončić, and Anthony Davis. The Raptors fall to 4‑4, remaining competitive but needing to improve three‑point shooting (34%) and defensive consistency.
Looking Ahead
The Lakers host the Denver Nuggets on January 22, a test for Dončić’s integration and the team’s perimeter defense. The Raptors travel to Boston on January 23 to face the Celtics, an opportunity to reinforce their defensive identity and climb the Eastern Conference standings.
