Overview
- In the fourth quarter at Crypto.com Arena, Kris Dunn shoved Dončić while battling for a rebound and then fired the ball into his chest, prompting Hayes to shove Dunn in response.
- Officials ejected Dunn and assessed Hayes a single technical foul, and the league has not announced any additional discipline.
- The Lakers defeated the Clippers 135-118 to win West Group B and advance to the Emirates NBA Cup quarterfinals.
- Dončić delivered 43 points, 13 assists and 9 rebounds, and he publicly offered to cover any fine Hayes receives for stepping in.
- LeBron James praised Hayes for defending a teammate and described the Lakers as a close-knit group thriving on shared accountability.