Spurs Defeat Lakers 126-102 After Wildfires

The San Antonio Spurs defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 126-102 in their first game back after postponements due to devastating wildfires in Southern California. Victor Wembanyama, Devin Vassell, and Stephon Castle each scored 23 points, leading the Spurs to dominate the second half, where they outscored the Lakers 73-40. Despite the Lakers initially holding a lead, their performance faltered, marking their third consecutive loss, with Anthony Davis scoring 30 points and LeBron James struggling with only 18 points. The game served as a backdrop for the Lakers to support local wildfire relief efforts, with the organization contributing significant resources to affected residents. Lakers coach JJ Redick, who lost his home in the fires, hoped the game would provide a sense of hope and normalcy for the community. The loss leaves the Lakers at 20-17, while the Spurs improved to 19-19, inching closer to the play-in spot in the Western Conference.