Lakers 129-119 Mavericks (Nov 28, 2025) Game Recap

Game overview

The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Dallas Mavericks 129-119 in an uptempo matchup in Los Angeles on November 28, 2025, pulling away in the second half with more efficient offense and deeper rotation contributions. The Lakers improved their strong early-season record in the Western Conference, while the struggling Mavericks added another loss to an already difficult stretch.

Score by quarters

1st quarter: Lakers 28, Mavericks 22.
2nd quarter: Mavericks 40, Lakers 32.
3rd quarter: Lakers 38, Mavericks 32.
4th quarter: Lakers 31, Mavericks 25.
Final score: Lakers 129, Mavericks 119.

Key storylines

The game swung multiple times, with Dallas using a big second quarter to grab momentum before the Lakers answered after halftime with a dominant third period. Los Angeles controlled the final minutes by getting stops, attacking the paint, and capitalizing on trips to the free throw line.

The Lakers extended an already impressive winning streak and solidified their position near the top of the Western Conference standings. The Mavericks, meanwhile, continued a rough run that has seen them lose most of their recent games despite strong individual efforts.

Team context

The Lakers moved to a record that keeps them among the conference leaders, reflecting their consistent play on both ends of the floor early in the season.
Dallas remained near the bottom group in the West, with losses piling up and defensive inconsistency undermining their offense.

Style of play

Los Angeles combined balanced scoring with aggressive defense, particularly after halftime, turning stops into transition opportunities and quick-hitting half-court sets. Dallas relied heavily on its primary creators and perimeter shooting but struggled to sustain efficiency over four quarters.

The matchup highlighted the contrast between a confident, in-rhythm Lakers group and a Mavericks team still searching for stability on both ends of the floor.

Offensive execution

The Lakers’ offense flowed through multiple playmakers, with effective ball movement creating open looks at the rim and beyond the arc. Late in the game, their ability to generate high-percentage shots while managing the clock helped preserve the lead.

The Mavericks produced scoring bursts but had difficulty converting enough possessions in the half court, especially when pressured and forced into tougher attempts. Their recent trend of uneven shooting nights and missed opportunities in key moments continued in this matchup.

Defensive impact

Los Angeles tightened its defense in the second half, limiting clean three-point looks and contesting drives more physically. That shift slowed Dallas’ rhythm and allowed the Lakers to control pace and tempo down the stretch.

Dallas’ defense could not consistently contain the Lakers’ creators or protect the rim, leading to fouls and inside scoring that gradually broke the game open. Rotational breakdowns and late closeouts repeatedly put them in recovery mode.

Standings implications

In the Western Conference picture, the outcome reinforced the Lakers’ status as one of the early contenders. The win added to their positive differential and further extended their current run of victories.

For the Mavericks, another defeat deepened their gap from the playoff positions and highlighted the urgency to address defensive issues and lineup consistency. Their recent schedule has exposed a team still adapting and searching for stability.

Momentum and trends

Lakers: Enter the next stretch of games with increased confidence, having handled another opponent with a strong second-half surge.
Mavericks: Continue a pattern of competitive stretches followed by costly lapses, especially in late-game defense and shot selection.

Author’s summary

In a high-scoring, momentum-swinging night in Los Angeles, the Lakers’ deeper, steadier two-way play in the second half proved decisive against a Mavericks squad still mired in inconsistency and defensive troubles.

ESPN — 2025-11-29