Lakers star Luka Doncic delivered an electrifying performance on Friday night, showcasing his exceptional basketball skills as he led the team to a convincing 128-110 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves at Crypto.com Arena. Doncic scored an impressive 49 points, nearly achieving a triple-double with 11 rebounds and eight assists.
Following the game, Doncic expressed his approach to controlling the tempo, stating, “I think the paint was more closed, so that’s how I tried to control the game. And I think I managed that good today.” His performance marked a historic moment, as he became the first player in Lakers history to open a season with consecutive games of over 40 points. He joins NBA legends Michael Jordan, Wilt Chamberlain, and Anthony Davis as only the fourth player to achieve this feat.
Doncic’s scoring prowess has also been significant historically; he became the all-time leading point scorer for the Lakers in the first two games of a season, amassing 92 points and surpassing Jerry West’s previous record of 81 points set in the 1969-70 season. Furthermore, he surpassed Michael Jordan’s 91 points for the fourth most in NBA history for the first two games of a season.
During the game, Doncic showcased his ability to excite fans, notably hitting a three-pointer that expanded the Lakers’ lead to 19 points, complete with a shimmy that delighted the crowd. Reflecting on his playful celebration, Doncic admitted, “It’s honestly because I don’t know what to do at those moments… It just came out. It’s got to be better. I got to work on it.”
As Doncic neared the 50-point mark, he missed one of two free throws late in the game and left the court to a well-deserved standing ovation. Lakers coach JJ Redick humorously noted the team’s attempts to see Doncic hit the milestone, mentioning their light-hearted exchange over his missed opportunities to take shots.
Doncic’s contributions were felt throughout the game, not just in scoring. He tied the record for the most points in a first quarter in Lakers history since the 1996-97 season, dropping 23 points in the first. He also finished the first half with 32 points, becoming one of only four Lakers since the 1996-97 season to record multiple games with 30-plus points in a single half.
Lakers fans and teammates alike were impressed by Doncic’s relentless work ethic and talent, with Marcus Smart commenting on his evolution as a player. “He comes in every day working, and it shows. He’s great at what he does and he’s only going to continue to get better,” said Smart.
Meanwhile, the Lakers also faced a minor setback with backup center Jaxson Hayes sitting out the game due to left knee soreness. Nonetheless, with Doncic at the forefront, the team’s prospects look exceptionally promising as they continue their season.