At first, it looked like the game might not happen because of the ongoing controversy between the NBA and the Chinese government. Then Kyrie Irving (facial contusion) had to leave the game after he was hit in the face after only playing one minute and six seconds. Caris LeVert (right eye) exited soon after Irving and did not return. Somehow, the Brooklyn Nets still walked away with a 114-111 preseason win over the Los Angeles Lakers in Shanghai.

Brooklyn was led by Spencer Dinwiddie, who once again proved he’s among the best reserves in the NBA by scoring 20 points on 6 of 14 shooting (3-for-6 from three). He also had seven assists. Though, Dinwiddie did turn the ball over five times.

Taurean Prince had another strong shooting performance. He went 6-for-11 from the floor, 4-for-6 from deep, to finish with 18. However, Prince did foul out following an important turnover late in the game.

But, after the Lakers tied things up at 111-111 thanks to Zach Norvell Jr.’s two free throws, the Nets took a 112-111 lead when Theo Pinson went 1-for-2 from the free-throw line.

Then, after a Lakers turnover, David Nwaba, who came in fro Prince, slammed one home to give Brooklyn the 114-111 advantage, which is where the score would remain to end the game.

Like Dinwiddie, both Pinson and Nwaba each had five turnovers.

Dzanan Musa had another strong game off the bench. He scored 16, going 6-for-10 from the floor (4-for-6 from three). He also had a pair of steals.

Rodions Kurucs led the Nets with eight rebounds. He also scored 10 points.

DeAndre Jordan and Jarrett Allen threw a block party, combining for seven in the win. Jordan got the start in this game, accounting for three of the Nets’ nine total blocked shots.

The Nets and Lakers are scheduled to square off again on Saturday at 7:30 a.m. in Shenzhen.