Doncic and LeBron frustrate the Knicks, push Lakers to victory

A true spectacle was what was experienced at Crypto.com Arena in California. The Los Angeles Lakers earned their eighth consecutive victory by defeating the New York Knicks (113-109) in overtime after an intense battle on the hardwood in regulation.

The Lakers, down by 10 points just minutes before the game ended, managed to take the game into overtime thanks to a memorable defensive performance in the fourth quarter.

The Knicks stood up to an opponent that has as much momentum as any team in the league. Much of the reason for the Lakers' meteoric rise (they now sit at second place in the Western Conference) is LeBron James and the young star who became his new running mate in January, Luka Doncic.

"I think we have a great team and great players. The chemistry is building and I'm happy to be a part of it," Doncic said after the game.

The top scorer in NBA history recorded a double-double (31 points and 12 rebounds) to propel the second-winningest franchise in NBA history against a feisty Knicks squad. The Slovenian guard, destined to be the leader of the Lakers' next generation, put up practically the same figure (32 points and 12 assists) as his teammate.

Sixty-three of the 113 points were scored by a duo that has placed the Lakers in the list of top candidates to win the NBA title this season.

The Knicks played well enough to win as well. Aside from Mikal Bridges, who was more subdued, the other Knicks starters were outstanding. Jalen Brunson, who ended up injured, finished with a double-double (39 points and 10 assists), as did Karl-Anthony Towns (12 points and 14 rebounds) and Josh Hart (18 points and 10 rebounds). O.G. Anunoby scored 20 points. New York is now third in the Eastern Conference. Barring a disaster, they will be in the Playoffs.

A hero named Curry

After trailing by 22 points, the Golden State Warriors, who continue to fight to clinch a playoff berth, eventually disposed of the Brooklyn Nets (119-121) at Barclays Center.

The epic comeback was led by Stephen Curry. The best player in Warriors history scored 40 points, thwarting the Nets' impetuous efforts. Jimmy Butler contributed 25 points.

At TD Garden in Massachusetts, the Boston Celtics earned their third straight win, beating the Philadelphia 76ers (123-105). Their star, Jayson Tatum, scored 35 points.