LOS ANGELES (AP) – When the Los Angeles Lakers blew a nine-point lead in 70 seconds late in regulation, they certainly seemed to be careening straight toward another loss in overtime.
That’s when the young, patchwork Lakers discovered a poise they’ve never had before – just in time to avoid a historic defeat.
Jordan Hill scored 26 points and forced the second overtime with a clutch jumper, and the Lakers snapped their nine-game losing streak in thrilling fashion with a 123-118 victory over the Chicago Bulls on Thursday night.
Wayne Ellington scored 23 points and rookie Jordan Clarkson added 18 for the Lakers, who held off the Bulls for their first victory since Jan. 9. With big late baskets from everybody in their unassuming lineup, the Lakers avoided matching the 1994 squad coached by Magic Johnson for the longest skid in the 16-time champion franchise’s history.
“We can surprise a lot of people out there if we keep playing like we did tonight,” Hill said.