NBA: Lakers fall against the Suns and still can't get back on their feet

The six-game winning streak the Los Angeles Lakers achieved a few weeks ago now resembles a mirage of something that was to come. The purple and gold franchise has since stumbled, suffering their third consecutive defeat. This time, it came in Arizona, where the Phoenix Suns cruised to a commanding 127-100 victory in the NBA Cup.

The third quarter proved decisive. It was during these twelve minutes that the Lakers faltered, allowing the Suns to dominate on the hardwood, scoring twice as many points as their opponent. Earlier, in the first two quarters, the Los Angeles team was trailing by a mere two points. By the final quarter, however, the Arizona franchise unleashed their potential and sealed the deal.

Anthony Davis was one of the few bright spots—if not the only one—for a franchise that delivered a poor performance across the court at the Footprint Center. "The Brow" recorded a double-double with 25 points and 15 rebounds. LeBron James posted similar numbers with 18 points and 10 assists, but the Lakers' leader failed to make an impactful impression in the game.

Bradley Beal and Kevin Durant returned and the Suns flew. Each added 23 points to thier personal tally, with Jusuf Nurkic going home with a double-double under his arm (12 points and 12 rebounds). But the MVP crown went to Devin Booker, with a double-double (26 points and 10 assists) that propelled Arizona.

Spurs at Wembanyama's level

At their best so far this season. That is the state in which San Antonio Spurs are in right now, who took their fourth consecutive victory defeating Utah Jazz by 115-128 in Salt Lake City, the same team they beat a few days ago.

Victor Wembanyama, in his second season in the NBA, has risen as leader of a franchise that seeks to return to triumphant times like the one it experienced at the beginning of the 21st century with Duncan, Ginobili, Parker and company. Once again, the young French center was the beacon of the Spurs against the Jazz, scoring 34 points. He was accompanied by Stephon Castle, who scored 23 points, and by four other players who surpassed the ten-point mark.

The Salt Lake City franchise did not play poorly, but they ran into a Spurs that was up to the task. Three Jazz players (Keyonte George, John Collins and Collin Sexton) signed 20 points or more.