Luka Doncic propels Lakers to beat Clippers in Los Angeles derby

Luka Doncic swiftly made his mark on his 26th birthday, adding a new spark to the Lakers-Clippers rivalry.

The Slovenian star scored 31 points in his debut game against the Los Angeles Clippers, helping the Lakers win 106-102 in a close game.

It was the team's fifth consecutive victory and fifth consecutive over their city rivals.

Doncic, who was a member of the Dallas Mavericks and engaged in numerous postseason skirmishes with the Clippers, persisted in torturing them in purple and gold.

He finished with 31 points, one point less than his Lakers career high, on 9 of 22 shooting five assists, and three steals.

The Clippers' renowned defense, which started the game rated second in the NBA in defensive rating, was unable to handle his playmaking and shot creation.

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The Lakers' victory brought them up to 37-21 and put them in the running for the second seed in the Western Conference, alongside the Memphis Grizzlies and Denver Nuggets.

The club has now won 15 of their previous 18 games, continuing their winning streak and moving up the standings.

Doncic stole centre stage, but LeBron James, who finished with 28 points and 13 rebounds, was once again at the top of his game.

Austin Reaves, who has thrived as the Lakers' third scoring option since Doncic's arrival, left the game early due to right calf pain, so the triumph wasn't without its setbacks.