Blazers defeat shorthanded Lakers 109-81 in regular-season finale

The Portland Trail Blazers concluded their NBA season with a significant 109-81 victory over the shorthanded Los Angeles Lakers, who rested several key players, including LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Dalano Banton led the Blazers with 23 points, supported by Toumani Camara and Kris Murray, while rookie Dalton Knecht scored 27 points for the Lakers. The Blazers dominated the game, particularly in the third quarter, where they outscored the Lakers 31-18, sealing the win and finishing with a 36-46 record. Prior to the game, the Trail Blazers announced a multi-year contract extension for coach Chauncey Billups. The Lakers, already secured as the third seed for the playoffs, will now prepare for their first-round matchup against Minnesota. Despite the loss, the game highlighted Portland's youthful talent and potential for the upcoming season.