Lakers vs. Celtics: Luka Doncic & Al Horford Incident – Full Game Breakdown

Introduction

The Los Angeles Lakers faced the Boston Celtics on March 8, 2025, in a game filled with intensity, controversy, and key playoff implications. The game’s biggest moment came when Luka Doncic was struck in the face by Al Horford’s knee during a fast-break dunk. The incident quickly went viral, with fans debating whether the contact was accidental or intentional.

Despite Doncic’s 34-point performance, the Lakers fell short as the Celtics secured a 111-101 victory. Adding to the Lakers' woes, LeBron James suffered a groin injury in the fourth quarter, potentially affecting the team's playoff positioning.

The Luka Doncic-Al Horford Incident

 What Happened?

In the first quarter (3:57 remaining), Luka Doncic was advancing the ball when Jaylen Brown stole it. Brown initiated a fast break and passed to Al Horford, who dunked the ball with force.

As Horford hung on the rim and swung down, his knee inadvertently struck Doncic in the face, causing him to fall to the floor.

 Reactions & Controversy

The play sparked intense debates:

• Rennae Stubbs, former coach of Serena Williams, suggested the contact appeared deliberate.
• Fans on social media were split, with some arguing it was a natural motion, while others questioned Horford’s intent.
• The referees did not review the play, and no foul or technical was called.

Luka Doncic’s Performance

Despite the hit, Doncic bounced back with a strong game:

• 34 points
• 9 rebounds
• 7 assists
• 3 steals

However, his efforts weren’t enough to overcome the Celtics' dominant play.

Boston Celtics’ Star Performances

The Celtics controlled the game with key contributions from their stars:

 Jayson Tatum – 40 points, 12 rebounds, 8 assists
  Jaylen Brown – 26 points, 6 rebounds
  Kristaps Porzingis – 10 rebounds, 4 blocks

With Tatum leading the charge, the Celtics extended their lead in the fourth quarter and sealed the 111-101 victory.

Lakers’ Injury Woes: LeBron James Update

Adding to the Lakers' problems, LeBron James exited the game in the fourth quarter due to a groin injury.

 Injury Update: Reports suggest he may miss 1-2 weeks, depending on his recovery.

With Anthony Davis also managing minor injuries, the Lakers could face serious challenges in upcoming games.

Final Score & Key Stats

 Lakers’ 8-game winning streak ended
  Celtics improved to 46-18, leading the East

Was Horford’s Knee Intentional?

Arguments FOR It Being Intentional:
  Knee positioning looked deliberate
  Rennae Stubbs’ reaction questioning intent
  Doncic’s visible frustration

Arguments AGAINST It Being Intentional:
 ? Momentum from the dunk made knee movement natural
 ? Referees did not review or call a foul
 ? Horford has no history of dirty plays

Conclusion: The NBA has not issued any fines or suspensions, indicating they view it as an accidental play.

Playoff Implications & What’s Next?

 Celtics: Strengthened their #1 seed contention in the East
  Lakers: Dropped to 39-22, and LeBron’s injury could affect playoff seeding

 Next Games:

 Lakers vs. Phoenix Suns (March 10)
  Celtics vs. Milwaukee Bucks (March 11)

Key Takeaways

 Luka Doncic took a hard hit but finished with 34 points
  Al Horford’s knee strike remains a controversial topic
  Jayson Tatum’s 40-point performance led the Celtics
  LeBron James’ injury could impact the Lakers’ season
  The Lakers’ 8-game winning streak ended
  Boston solidified its position as a top title contender

Conclusion

This game had everything—physical play, controversy, and high-level performances. Luka Doncic's resilience and Jayson Tatum's dominance were highlights, but LeBron’s injury may be the most significant takeaway.

Was Horford’s knee intentional or just bad luck? Let us know your thoughts!