The LA Clippers defeated the Lakers 67-58 in the 2025 NBA 2K26 Summer League in Las Vegas. Jordan Miller led the way as the Clippers forced turnovers and sealed the game with a late surge.
Clippers Outlast Lakers in Summer League Showdown
In an electrifying matchup at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas, the Los Angeles Clippers emerged victorious against their crosstown rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, in the 2025 NBA 2K26 Summer League. The final score—Clippers 67, Lakers 58—was a reflection of gritty defense, sharp execution, and breakout performances from young prospects.
The game showcased promising talents like Jordan Miller, Bronny James, and Zavier Simpson, offering fans a glimpse into the future of their respective franchises.
Jordan Miller Leads Clippers With Dominant Performance
Jordan Miller shined as the standout performer for the Clippers. He led all scorers with 19 points, adding seven rebounds, two assists, and two steals to his stat line. Miller’s presence was felt on both ends of the court, and his clutch 3-pointer with 3:18 remaining sparked the Clippers’ game-ending 11-0 run, sealing the victory.
His offensive rhythm, combined with defensive poise, solidified Miller as a top candidate for breakout star of the Summer League.
Clippers’ Defense Shuts Down Lakers’ Offense
The Clippers’ defense was the story of the night. They held the Lakers to just 34.4% shooting and forced 19 turnovers, nearly matching the Lakers’ 22 total field goals. The aggressive perimeter defense, active hands, and help-side rotation limited the Lakers’ shot creation and rhythm.
Rising stars like Patrick Baldwin Jr. and Yanic Konan Niederhauser contributed to the defensive effort with blocks, steals, and timely stops.
Zavier Simpson and Supporting Cast Step Up
Zavier Simpson played the role of floor general for the Clippers. He posted 12 points, six assists, four rebounds, and two blocks, showcasing veteran-like poise and vision. His pick-and-roll execution and defensive reads were vital during crucial moments.
Patrick Baldwin Jr. added 10 points, seven rebounds, and two blocks, while rookie first-round pick Yanic Konan Niederhauser contributed 10 points, two rebounds, and two steals. Their collective efforts gave the Clippers enough firepower to withstand the Lakers’ second-half surge.
Bronny James Impresses for Lakers
Despite the loss, Bronny James had an encouraging showing. He tallied 17 points on 6-of-10 shooting, and contributed five rebounds and five assists. His efficient shooting, court vision, and calm under pressure hinted at his growing maturity on the floor.
James continues to evolve as a playmaker and shot creator. His chemistry with teammates and ability to run the offense were key positives for the Lakers.
Lakers Struggle With Turnovers and Late Game Execution
The Lakers showed promise early, particularly in the second quarter where they outscored the Clippers 18-10. They even opened the fourth quarter on an 8-0 run, flipping the momentum. However, turnovers and late-game execution plagued their performance down the stretch.
Players like Cole Swider, who registered 16 points, five rebounds, and three steals, and Dalton Knecht, who added eight points and seven boards, tried to rally the squad, but the Clippers’ defensive pressure proved too much.
Yanic Konan Niederhauser Makes Solid Rookie Debut
All eyes were on Yanic Konan Niederhauser, the Clippers’ highly anticipated first-round draft pick. In his Summer League debut, he recorded 10 points, two rebounds, and two steals, showing flashes of his two-way potential.
His footwork in the post and quick hands on defense hint at a bright future. Niederhauser’s composure and hustle impressed scouts and fans alike.
Game Statistics Breakdown
Here’s a quick glance at the key stats from the game:
| Category | Clippers | Lakers |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 67 | 58 |
| Field Goal % | 38.5% | 34.4% |
| Turnovers | 13 | 19 |
| Rebounds | 37 | 34 |
| Assists | 16 | 14 |
| Top Scorer | Jordan Miller (19) | Bronny James (17) |
What This Means Moving Forward
The Clippers’ win sets a strong tone for the rest of the NBA 2K26 Summer League. Young players are stepping up, and the synergy among the roster is growing. Coach development staff will be watching closely as the Clippers prepare for more competitive games ahead.
The Lakers, meanwhile, showed potential but need to work on consistency and minimizing errors. With Bronny James leading the charge, they’ll look to regroup and bounce back in their next matchup.
Conclusion: A Rivalry Rekindled on the Summer Stage
The Clippers vs Lakers Summer League clash gave fans everything: rising stars, fierce defense, clutch plays, and a fourth-quarter comeback. While the stakes are lower than regular season matchups, the intensity and pride remain high when these two LA teams meet.
With the spotlight on talents like Jordan Miller and Bronny James, the NBA 2K26 Summer League continues to be a proving ground for the league’s future.