The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the visiting Atlanta Hawks, 107-106, in a last-second thriller at Staples Center on Sunday evening.

LeBron James won his team the game after almost giving it up, scoring the go-ahead basket on a put-back dunk with 15 seconds remaining after going 0-of-2 at the free-throw line. Atlanta, meanwhile, had the opportunity to answer on the final possession, putting the ball in the hands of rookie point guard Trae Young. Young drove to the basket and put up a lay-up as time expired, but was blocked by veteran center Tyson Chandler to end the game.


In addition to his game-winning dunk, James led the Lakers (7-6) with 26 points. He added seven rebounds and four assists in the winning effort. Kyle Kuzma scored another 18 points and pulled down eight rebounds. The Lakers also enjoyed strong defense from their platoon of big men, as JaVale McGee and Tyson Chandler combined for six blocks on the night. LA is now 3-0 since signing Chandler as a free agent last week.


Atlanta (3-10) found itself on the losing side once again, despite a number of stellar performances. Young had a team-high 12 assists while also scoring 20 points. Taurean Prince led the team with 23 points on 9-of-13 shooting. Big man Alex Len also posted a double-double, finishing with 17 points and 11 rebounds.


The Hawks will continue their West Coast road trip with a visit to Golden State on Tuesday. LA, meanwhile, will host the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday.