Lakers Complete Stunning Comeback Against Celtics in Overtime Thriller

The Los Angeles Lakers delivered one of the most electrifying performances of the 2025-26 NBA season, overcoming an 18-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the Boston Celtics 128-125 in overtime at Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday night.

Trailing 98-80 entering the final frame, the Lakers appeared dead in the water against their historic rivals. However, a combination of clutch shooting from Anthony Davis and stellar playmaking from the veteran core sparked an incredible rally that had the sellout crowd on its feet.

Davis led the charge with 42 points and 16 rebounds, including the game-tying three-pointer with 1.2 seconds remaining in regulation. The superstar forward shot 7-of-11 from beyond the arc, matching his career-high for made three-pointers in a single game.

"This is why we play the game," Davis said postgame. "When your back is against the wall, that's when champions respond. Tonight showed the heart and character of this team."

The comeback began with a defensive adjustment that saw the Lakers switch to a full-court press, forcing five Celtics turnovers in the fourth quarter. Those extra possessions proved crucial as Los Angeles outscored Boston 48-27 in the final 12 minutes of regulation.

Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 38 points but struggled in the clutch, shooting 2-of-8 in the fourth quarter and overtime combined. The All-Star forward acknowledged the team's inability to close out games has become a concerning pattern.

In the five-minute overtime period, both teams traded baskets before Davis hit the decisive jumper with 47 seconds remaining. The Lakers' defense then forced a crucial steal on the ensuing possession, with veteran guard Russell Westbrook diving for a loose ball to secure the victory.

The win improves the Lakers to 32-24 on the season, keeping them firmly in the Western Conference playoff race. For the Celtics, the loss drops them to 34-22, though they maintain their position atop the Eastern Conference standings. This classic rivalry matchup lived up to its billing, showcasing the competitive spirit that has defined Lakers-Celtics encounters for decades.