The Los Angeles Lakers survived a rollercoaster night and sealed a dramatic 116-114 victory over the Phoenix Suns, thanks to LeBron James with two free throws in the final seconds.

With 3.9 seconds on the clock, James converted two key free throws to turn around a game that seemed to be slipping away after squandering a lead of 20 points in the end quarter.

The 40-year-old forward finished with 26 points, while Luka Doncic led the Lakers' offense with 29 points, despite an inconsistent shooting night.

Phoenix comeback and heart-stopping finish

The Lakers dominated large stretches of the game and took a 99-79 lead with 7:48 left to play. However, Phoenix responded and took a 114-113 lead with 12.2 seconds remaining after a three-pointer by Dillon Brooks.

The play ended with Brooks being ejected for two technical fouls, giving Los Angeles an additional free throw that James missed.

On the decisive possession, Devin Booker fouled James on a three-point attempt. The veteran missed the first, but made the next two to give the Lakers back the lead. Grayson Allen's final attempt missed the rim, signaling the home team's victory.

Key takeaways

The win keeps the Lakers in the hunt in a demanding Western Conference and confirms that, even in chaotic games, LeBron James remains a game-changer when the clock ticks.