LAS VEGAS—The Los Angeles Lakers improved to 3-0 in the NBA Summer League with a 99-85 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday, using balanced scoring and a strong defensive performance to remain unbeaten in Las Vegas.
The Lakers established control early, shooting efficiently from the perimeter and building a double-digit lead before halftime. They carried a 16-point advantage into the break and withstood a third-quarter push from the Clippers before extending the margin to as many as 23 points entering the final period, according to the NBA Summer League box score and game recap.
Cameron Carr led all scorers with 23 points, while Chris Mañon recorded 17 points, 11 rebounds and two steals. Arthur Kaluma added 15 points and four assists, Adou Thiero contributed 13 points, six rebounds and three assists, and AK Okereke scored 11 points off the bench to provide the Lakers with five players in double figures.
Los Angeles set the tone with aggressive defense that disrupted the Clippers' offense and helped generate transition opportunities. The Lakers also connected consistently from beyond the arc during the opening half, creating the cushion that allowed them to manage the game despite an improved Clippers performance after the interval.
The Clippers briefly reduced the deficit in the third quarter but were unable to sustain momentum against the Lakers' balanced attack. Their comeback attempt faded as Los Angeles responded with another scoring run to restore a comfortable lead before the fourth quarter.
The victory continued a productive Summer League campaign for the Lakers, who entered the Las Vegas tournament after posting positive results in the California Classic and opened play in Nevada with wins over the Oklahoma City Thunder and Dallas Mavericks. The Clippers came into the matchup after defeating the Utah Jazz in their previous Summer League contest.
Summer League competition serves as an opportunity for rookies, young players and free-agent hopefuls to compete for roster spots and development opportunities ahead of NBA training camps later this year.
With the win, the Lakers remained unbeaten through three games in Las Vegas and strengthened their position in the Summer League standings. According to the NBA schedule, Los Angeles will next face the Chicago Bulls, while the Clippers continue their Summer League schedule with another opportunity to improve their record.
