Lakers' Luke Kennard saves winning streak with game-winning shot

Kennard's clutch 3-pointer lifts Lakers over Magic in final seconds

Mar. 22, 2026 at 3:10am

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With the Lakers trailing the Magic 104-102 and just one second left, guard Luke Kennard hit a game-winning 3-pointer to extend the Lakers' winning streak to nine games. Kennard, who has the best 3-point percentage in the league, was left wide open on the inbounds pass and knocked down the shot to secure the victory. The Lakers have now won 12 of their last 13 games, turning their season around after a disappointing stretch earlier in the year.

Why it matters

The Lakers' recent surge has transformed them from a struggling team to a legitimate championship contender. Kennard's heroics in the clutch demonstrated his value as a sharpshooting role player who can step up when the team's stars are struggling. This win keeps the Lakers' momentum going as they look to solidify their position in the Western Conference playoff race.

The details

With the Magic leading 104-102 and just one second remaining, Lakers guard Marcus Smart inbounded the ball looking for LeBron James or Luka Doncic. However, they were both heavily contested, so Smart instead found the wide-open Kennard behind the 3-point line. Kennard, who leads the NBA in 3-point percentage, calmly knocked down the game-winning shot to give the Lakers the victory. The win extends the Lakers' winning streak to nine games and 12 wins in their last 13 contests.

  • The Lakers and Magic previously played on February 24, with the Magic winning 110-109 in a close game.
  • The Lakers' current winning streak began after that February 24 loss to the Magic.

The players

Luke Kennard

A Lakers guard who hit the game-winning 3-pointer to extend the team's winning streak. Kennard is known for having the best 3-point percentage in the NBA.

LeBron James

The Lakers' superstar forward who has accepted a reduced role as the team has turned things around during their winning streak.

Luka Doncic

The Magic's star player who had a dominant first half but struggled in the second half, opening the door for Kennard's heroics.

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What they’re saying

“Boy, did the Lakers need him.”

— Melissa Rohlin, Author

What’s next

The Lakers will look to extend their winning streak when they face the Pistons on Monday. Luka Doncic will be suspended for that game after picking up his 16th technical foul.

The takeaway

Luke Kennard's clutch 3-pointer demonstrated the Lakers' depth and ability to get contributions from role players when their stars are struggling. This win keeps the Lakers surging as they solidify their status as championship contenders in the Western Conference.