The game took place Sunday night against the Phoenix Suns, when the Lakers nearly let a big lead slip away. Los Angeles won 118-116, but Smart’s late mistakes became a key talking point. The guard addressed his role after the game, taking responsibility for the tense finish.

Dec 14, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks (3) and Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) react during an altercation that resulted in a technical for Brooks during the second half of a game at at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-Imagn Images | Allan Henry-Imagn Images

When the final buzzer sounded on Sunday night, the game between the Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Lakers didn’t just come to a close; it shifted into scrutiny.

The Suns' head coach Jordan Ott had a few choice words for the referees after his team's game against the Lakers.

Phoenix Suns on the road after an NBA Cup elimination. Despite injuries, the Suns, led by Dillon Brooks and coaching, have been competitive. The Lakers, coming off a defensive lapse, will rely on Luka Doncic and LeBron James against a tenacious Phoenix squad.

PHOENIX -- The Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Lakers have unveiled their injury reports ahead of Sunday's battle at Mortgage Matchup Center, which is headlined by Devin Booker. Booker, who has missed Phoenix's last three games with a groin injury, is questionable.

The Phoenix Suns are nearing the end of a gruesome portion of their schedule, but not before a pair of meetings with the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State