Hawks Overcome Injuries, Crush Lakers in Atlanta
The Atlanta Hawks, missing three starters including All-Star Trae Young, shocked the NBA world Saturday night by dismantling the Los Angeles Lakers 122-102 in front of a roaring home crowd. The story of the night?
Mouhamed Gueye’s breakout performance, as the young forward poured in a career-high 21 points, grabbed 7 rebounds, and dished out 7 assists, leading a depleted Hawks squad to a statement win.
Gueye, Daniels, and Risacher Step Up Big
Despite being without Young (MCL sprain), Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Nikola Durisic, Jalen Johnson, and Kristaps Porzingis (rest), Atlanta came out firing. Gueye, making just his second start of the season, scored 11 points in the first quarter alone, helping the Hawks build a 37-20 lead that set the tone for the night.
Dyson Daniels was the engine at point guard, finishing with 10 points, a career-high 13 assists, and 8 rebounds. Daniels also extended his streak to 62 consecutive games with at least one steal, breaking Doc Rivers’ franchise record and ranking 8th all-time in NBA history.
Zaccharie Risacher added 19 points, while rookie Asa Newell chipped in a career-high 17 points and 4 steals, showcasing Atlanta’s impressive depth.
Lakers Falter Despite Luka Dončić’s Efforts
The Lakers, who were without LeBron James, Christian Koloko, Chris Manon, Austin Reaves, and Gabe Vincent, struggled to keep pace.
Luka Dončić, averaging a staggering 40 points per game this season, was held to just 22 points and 11 assists before sitting out midway through the third quarter as the game slipped away.
Jarred Vanderbilt was a bright spot for LA, pulling down 18 rebounds and scoring 12 points, but the Lakers’ supporting cast couldn’t fill the void left by their injured stars.
Historic Third Quarter and Defensive Masterclass
Atlanta’s lead ballooned to 26 points in the third quarter—their largest third-quarter margin against the Lakers since 1959. The Hawks’ defense was relentless, holding the Lakers to just 102 points and forcing multiple turnovers.
Daniels’ defensive streak and Newell’s four steals highlighted a team effort that frustrated the Lakers’ offense all night.
What This Means for Both Teams
-
Hawks: Now 5-5, Atlanta proved their resilience and depth, even without their top talent. Gueye’s emergence and Daniels’ leadership could be game-changers as the team waits for its stars to return.
-
Lakers: Dropping to 7-3, LA faces tough questions about their bench and ability to compete without LeBron and other key contributors. Dončić’s MVP-level play wasn’t enough, and the team will need to regroup quickly.
Expert Commentary
NBA analyst JJ Redick didn’t mince words in his postgame reaction, calling out the Lakers’ lack of urgency and defensive lapses against a short-handed Hawks squad. “You can’t let a team missing half its starters run you off the floor,” Redick said, echoing the frustration of Lakers fans everywhere.
Looking Ahead
-
Hawks: Travel to face the LA Clippers on Monday night.
-
Lakers: Head to Charlotte for a crucial bounce-back opportunity.
If Saturday’s game proved anything, it’s that in today’s NBA, depth and hustle can trump star power—especially when injuries strike.
Sources
1. Los Angeles Lakers vs. Atlanta Hawks Live Score and Stats
2. The Lakers are part of a record-breaking seven-team trade
3. LAKERS at HAWKS | FULL GAME HIGHLIGHTS | November 8, 2025
4. Report: Lakers have 'shifted' to 'aggressive' roster-building approach
5. Los Angeles Lakers vs Atlanta Hawks Full Game Highlights - YouTube
6. Luka Dončić is making a case as the best player in the NBA
7. JJ Redick PISSED reaction to Lakers loss vs Hawks without their stars
8. Best NBA Bets Today: Free Picks and Player Props for Wednesday ...
9. Los Angeles Lakers vs Atlanta Hawks Full Game Highlights 4th Qtr
10. Lakers Receive Major Update on Potential Austin Reaves Contract ...
11. Covers.com - Sports Betting Odds, Lines, Picks & News 2025
12. List of Sweepstakes Casinos 2025: 150+ Online SC Casinos (USA)
13. [PDF] H0Jf Comm J^ccessful Cuba Seatbelts save Marines' lives ase ...
