Luka Doncic scored 52 points, including eight three-pointers, to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 132-123 victory over the Utah Jazz on Sunday. This marked the first 50-point performance of the NBA season. Doncic’s late fourth-quarter shooting, highlighted by back-to-back three-pointers during a decisive 14-5 run, propelled the Lakers to an eight-win stretch in their past nine matchups against Utah.

In addition to his scoring, Doncic contributed 10 assists and seven rebounds. Austin Reaves supported the effort with 29 points, and the pair combined to convert 21 of 24 free throws, helping secure the win on the road.

The game featured a notable return to Utah for Walker Kessler, who was part of a sign-and-trade deal that sent him to Los Angeles in July. Kessler managed only two points and seven rebounds in his first game back with the Jazz.

Utah, which led by as many as 18 points in the second quarter, was paced by Lauri Markkanen’s 28 points. Keyonte George recorded a near triple-double with 24 points, nine rebounds, and 10 assists. Jaren Jackson Jr. added 20 points, while Ace Bailey contributed 17 points and 12 rebounds in the losing effort.

The Lakers took their first lead of the game late in the second quarter when Doncic hit a step-back three-pointer with 4.1 seconds remaining in the half, putting Los Angeles ahead 74-71. The Lakers maintained control for much of the second half, ultimately closing out the Jazz with a strong finish.