### Lakers Edge Suns in Thrilling Finish Amid Late-Game Drama The Los Angeles Lakers secured a narrow victory over the Phoenix Suns with a final score of 116-114 on December 15, 2025. The game was marked by a dramatic fourth quarter where the Lakers, who had built a 20-point lead, nearly squandered their advantage. LeBron James played a pivotal role, scoring 26 points and hitting two crucial free throws in the closing seconds. The game also featured a heated exchange between James and Suns forward Dillon Brooks, culminating in Brooks' ejection after a physical altercation. This match showcased the intense rivalry between the two teams and highlighted the unpredictable nature of NBA games. ### Breakdown of the Game's Key Events 1. **Lakers' Strong Start and Lead** - The Lakers established a commanding 20-point lead early in the fourth quarter, leading 99-79 with 7:48 remaining [https://apnews.com/article/lakers-suns-score-d45411a5db8385bbfbfa9df48bb3495d]. 2. **Suns' Comeback Effort** - The Suns mounted a significant comeback, taking a 114-113 lead with just 12.2 seconds left after a clutch three-pointer from Dillon Brooks [https://sports.yahoo.com/nba/breaking-news/article/lakers-blow-20-point-4th-quarter-lead-vs-suns-still-win-in-chaotic-finish-that-featured-dillon-brooks-ejection-for-bumping-lebron-james-050149722.html]. 3. **Crucial Free Throws by LeBron James** - After being fouled by Devin Booker on a three-point attempt, James missed his first free throw but made the next two, giving the Lakers a 115-114 lead [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/lakers-outlast-suns-down-wire-180729040.html]. 4. **Dillon Brooks' Ejection** - Brooks was ejected for a second technical foul after bumping into James following his three-pointer, which added to the game's tension [https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/basketball/the-los-angeles-lakers-fend-off-phoenix-suns-fightback]. ### Supporting Evidence and Game Statistics - **Key Player Performances** - LeBron James: 26 points, 8-17 shooting - Luka Doncic: 29 points, though he struggled with 7-25 shooting [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/lebron_james_heroics_lift_lakers_over_suns_after_dillon_brooks_ejection/s1_17668_43207847]. - Dillon Brooks: Contributed significantly with a late three-pointer before his ejection [https://abc7.com/post/lakers-lebron-james-seals-win-suns-dillon-brooks-ejected/18287975]. - **Game Flow** - The Lakers led comfortably until the Suns' late surge, which included multiple lead changes in the final moments [https://www.latimes.com/sports/lakers/story/2025-12-14/los-angeles-lakers-phoenix-suns-nba-game-recap]. ### Conclusion: A Game of High Stakes and High Drama In summary, the Lakers' victory over the Suns was a testament to their resilience, overcoming a significant fourth-quarter challenge. The game was characterized by intense rivalries, highlighted by the altercation between LeBron James and Dillon Brooks, which added to the drama. 1. **Lakers' Initial Dominance**: Built a 20-point lead early in the fourth quarter. 2. **Suns' Resilience**: Mounted a comeback to take a late lead. 3. **Clutch Free Throws**: James' late-game performance sealed the win. 4. **Ejection Impact**: Brooks' ejection shifted the game's momentum. The Lakers' ability to hold on for the win despite the chaos underscores their competitive spirit and sets the stage for future encounters in this heated rivalry [https://dnyuz.com/2025/12/15/lakers-blow-20-point-lead-but-survive-when-dillon-brooks-and-suns-go-supernova].