It was the battle between the Los Angeles Lakers and Milwaukee Bucks, the best of the best. A possible anticipation of the NBA Finals and a big defining game at this point of the season.
The Bucks landed in Los Angeles as the top team in the NBA and left defeated after a hard game that resonated with playoff atmosphere and intensity. For the Lakers, a victory that came as unexpected to some extent.
The Bucks arrived at Staples Center with a league-best 53-10 record, leading in points per game, defensive rating, 2-point field goal percentage and rebounds per game.