NBA

Toronto loses with Jakob Pöltl against Dallas

Defeat for Jakob Pöltl (2nd from right)(Bild: AP)

After three recent wins in the National Basketball Association (NBA), the Toronto Raptors have suffered another defeat. The Canadians lost 125:136 to the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday (local time). Jakob Pöltl, who had been out with an ankle injury two days earlier in Indianapolis, played in the game. The center from Vienna finished with 16 points, seven rebounds, six assists, four steals and two blocks in 29:10 minutes.

In the first of four home games in a row, the Raptors still led 67:66 at half-time, but the visitors took command in the third quarter and were not to be denied victory. Luka Doncic, who turned 25 on Wednesday, gave himself a birthday present with a triple-double of 30 points, 16 assists and 11 rebounds.

Toronto was led by Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett with 28 and 26 points respectively. The Canadians will host the Golden State Warriors on Friday.

Lakers win city derby
The Lakers won the city derby in Los Angeles with a sensational finish. They won the final quarter against the Clippers 39:16 and thus the prestigious duel 116:112. LeBron James scored 19 of his 34 points in the final period. Anthony Davis contributed 20 points and twelve rebounds. Kawhi Leonard was the Clippers' most successful scorer with 26 points.

Defending champions Denver Nuggets celebrated their 40th win of the season with a 117-96 victory over the Sacramento Kings. Jamal Murray scored 32 points. Nikola Jokic scored in triple figures with 14 points and rebounds and 11 assists.