The loss to the Magic snapped a crazy 25-game hitting streak in 2025-26
The The Los Angeles Lakers haven’t been too inspiring this season in terms of being a legitimate title contender, as their defense has been so bad for so long that it’s hard to believe they can put together a defense good enough to compete, especially in the loaded West. But they’ve been great in clutch games and good at holding onto leads, which is why they’re still in the top six in the Western standings despite worrying numbers.
However, on Tuesday night, the Lakers fell short in the things they were supposed to be good at. They led after three quarters in their contest against the Orlando Magic (80-79 after three), and were in the middle of a game against a mid-level Eastern Conference team. They kind of lost, as a combination of late-game hesitation and late-game defensive woes undid the Lakers.
With the Magic breaking Lakers’ hearts, 110-109, thanks to Wendell Carter Jr.’s game-winner, the Purple and Gold have now lost their first game this season when they led after three quarters, according to X user @dmai21. They won their first 25 games this season, but now the Magic have dealt them a devastating blow.
The Lakers’ defensive problems are turning into a crisis
Luka Doncic endured a rough shooting night, but started to emerge towards the end of the game. It looked like he was going to take over the game, but instead he hesitated to make the final shot, which put LeBron James in such a difficult situation as the clock wound down – leading to a loss for the Lakers.
But it’s LA’s defense that is to blame for their latest loss. They allowed the Magic to put them in the paint by 58 points, and Paolo Banchero drove to the basket again and again. The game winner they allowed came from their inability to control the defensive boards.
The The Lakers need to do some soul searching if they would figure it out this season.
2026-02-25 07:44:00
