Lakers beat Clippers 125-117 to move to 2-0

The Los Angeles Lakers beat the Los Angeles Clippers 125-117 on Friday, improving to 2-0 to start the NBA season behind 28 points from Austin Reaves and a strong two-way performance from Walker Kessler. Reaves added nine assists, while Kessler scored 22 points, grabbed eight rebounds and blocked six shots. Luka Doncic had 23 points, seven assists and six rebounds, but committed 11 turnovers. The Clippers were charged with 26 turnovers, which the Lakers turned into 33 points. The teams were tied 64-64 at halftime. The Lakers took control in the third quarter, scoring 39 points to build a 103-90 lead entering the fourth. The Clippers rallied and cut the margin to six points late, but the Lakers held on for the win. Reaves and Kessler helped steady the Lakers in the closing stretch. Kessler made two late free throws and blocked a shot, while the team’s lead had narrowed after it repeatedly lost possession in the fourth quarter. Darius Garland led the Clippers with 26 points, and Brook Lopez scored 22. The result was the Lakers’ second victory in two games to open the season. Kessler has scored at least 20 points in each of his first two games with Los Angeles. The Lakers also...