Victor Wembanyama and Keldon Johnson Lead Spurs Past Lakers 107-91 Despite Luka Dončić's 38 Points

Victor Wembanyama and Keldon Johnson Power Spurs to 107-91 Victory Over Luka Dončić's LakersThe San Antonio Spurs earned a statement win on January 7, 2026, defeating the visiting Los Angeles Lakers 107-91 at the Frost Bank Center. Sophomore sensation Victor Wembanyama dominated with 32 points, 14 rebounds, 6 assists, and 5 blocks, while Keldon Johnson poured in 28 points on efficient shooting, outdueling Luka Dončić's game-high 38 points for the Lakers.San Antonio improved to 20-16, continuing their surprising push in the Western Conference, while the Lakers fell to 24-13, highlighting ongoing road struggles despite Dončić's heroics since his blockbuster trade.Game Recap: Spurs Dominate Paint and PerimeterThe Spurs set the tone early, jumping to a 30-19 first-quarter lead behind Wembanyama's rim protection and Johnson's hot shooting. Los Angeles responded in the second with Dončić orchestrating a 12-4 run, cutting the deficit to six at halftime (56-50).The third quarter proved decisive: San Antonio unleashed a 20-8 spurt fueled by transition buckets and Wemby's blocks leading to fast breaks. The Spurs extended the lead to 20 entering the fourth, and the Lakers never got closer than 12 the rest of the way.San Antonio shot 49% from the field and 41% from three (14-of-34), while holding LA to 42% shooting and forcing 16 turnovers. The Spurs won the rebound battle 52-41 and points in the paint 54-38.Key PerformancesSpurs:Victor Wembanyama: 32 points (12-22 FG), 14 rebounds, 6 assists, 5 blocks – another unicorn masterpiece. Keldon Johnson: 28 points (10-18 FG, 5-9 3PT), 8 rebounds – aggressive scoring all night. Devin Vassell: 15 points, 5 assists. Bench depth shone with Chris Paul orchestrating (12 assists). Lakers:Luka Dončić: 38 points (14-28 FG), 9 assists, 7 rebounds – brilliant but unsupported. LeBron James: 18 points, 8 rebounds – efficient but quiet in second half. Supporting cast struggled: Anthony Davis (questionable entering) limited to 12 points, 10 rebounds. Standout MomentsWembanyama's third-quarter sequence—a block on Dončić followed by a coast-to-coast dunk—ignited the home crowd. Johnson's corner threes repeatedly answered LA runs, while Paul's veteran playmaking kept the offense flowing.Dončić dazzled with step-back threes and no-look passes but couldn't overcome teammates' off night from deep (9-32 as a team).Post-Game ReactionsSpurs coach Gregg Popovich: "Vic is special, but this was a team effort. Keldon was tremendous, and our defense set the tone."Wembanyama: "We played Spurs basketball—together, physical, smart. Beating a team with Luka and LeBron feels great."Lakers coach JJ Redick: "Credit to San Antonio—they were the better team tonight. We didn't match their energy."Dončić: "Tough loss. I tried to do my part, but we need more from everyone on the road."Implications for Both TeamsFor the Spurs, the win reinforces their emergence as playoff contenders behind Wembanyama's superstar ascent and Johnson's breakout. At 20-16, they're firmly in the West play-in mix with momentum.The Lakers' road woes continue (sub-.500 away), raising questions about chemistry since acquiring Dončić. With a tough upcoming schedule, adjustments are needed to maintain top seeding.Next GamesSpurs: Host the Denver Nuggets on January 9. Lakers: Visit the Phoenix Suns on January 10. This matchup showcased the NBA's generational clash—Wembanyama's rising dominance overcoming Dončić's brilliance in a Spurs masterclass.