Lakers player grades: L.A.’s winning streak ends in Phoenix

On Tuesday, the Suns killed the Lakers’ budding momentum by defeating them, 115-105.

Just when it looked like the Los Angeles Lakers may have been gaining momentum, it ended on Tuesday against the Phoenix Suns.

The Suns won their eighth consecutive game over L.A., including the 2021 NBA playoffs, getting past Anthony Davis and company, 115-105.

Turnovers and 3-pointers were the two big problems for the Lakers. They gave the ball away 17 times and hit only 18.2% from downtown.

There were some fireworks with 3:55 left in the fourth quarter. Devin Booker blocked a shot attempt by Austin Reaves, and, in the same motion, Booker hit the Lakers guard in the face. Deandre Ayton stood over Reaves while the latter was on the ground, and Patrick Beverley violently pushed the Suns center, earning himself an ejection.

However, the incident failed to get the Lakers going. Reaves made both ensuing free throws, and Davis scored on the ensuing possession, bringing them within six, but that was as close as they drew.