Luka Doncic made sure Saturday night was one for the books. In just one quarter, he put up 16 points—matching his highest scoring output from his first three games with the Lakers. But that was only the beginning. He kept the momentum rolling, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a dominant 123-100 victory over the Denver Nuggets. This wasn’t just any win—it marked the Lakers’ first triumph in Denver in nearly three years, snapping an eight-game losing streak at Ball Arena and ending the Nuggets’ impressive nine-game winning streak.
“Playing here is always tough, especially against that team,” Doncic admitted after the game. “To win like this, it’s an amazing feeling and gives me a lot of confidence moving forward.” And confidence is exactly what he displayed throughout the game. He finished the night with a game-high 32 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists, and four steals—his most complete performance since being traded to the Lakers earlier this month.
Before tip-off, Lakers head coach JJ Redick had issued a challenge to Doncic: get so lost in the competition that he has one of those “blackout episodes” where he starts yelling, whether at himself, teammates, or even the crowd.
It’s safe to say Doncic delivered.
“He was super dialed in,” said LeBron James. “Once he started hitting those step-back threes and got to yelling and barking—at the fans, at us, at himself—you knew he was locked in. That’s the Luka we need.”
This breakout performance was a long time coming. Doncic had been easing into the Lakers’ lineup after a left calf injury had sidelined him since Christmas with the Dallas Mavericks. Through his first three games in purple and gold, he averaged 14.7 points on an underwhelming 35.6% shooting (20.8% from three). But Saturday night was different. He looked in complete control, leading the team in shot attempts with a solid 10-for-22 from the field while also tying for the team lead in assists.
It wasn’t just Doncic putting on a show. LeBron James was his usual dominant self, dropping 25 points on 11-for-19 shooting, along with nine rebounds, five assists, and three blocks. Austin Reaves had one of his best games of the season with 23 points and seven assists, while Rui Hachimura chipped in 21 points and four assists. The Lakers’ offensive balance was on full display, proving they have a deep arsenal beyond just their superstar duo.
Redick, who has been tweaking the team’s offensive strategy since Doncic arrived, made it clear that the Slovenian star will take on an even bigger role moving forward.
“I think Luka needs to be the guy that controls the offense,” Redick explained. “Bron and AR (Austin Reaves) will get their chances too because we’ll stagger their minutes, but all three of those guys are incredibly smart basketball players. That allows us to create mismatches and really put opposing teams in a blender.”
If Saturday night was any indication, Doncic running the show might just be the key to unlocking the Lakers’ full potential. His ability to break down defenses, set up teammates, and take over games with his elite shot-making skills makes the Lakers a nightmare matchup for anyone.
The win over Denver wasn’t just a statement—it was a glimpse into what could be an exciting stretch for the Lakers. With Doncic finally hitting his stride, the chemistry building among the stars, and Redick’s game plan falling into place, Los Angeles is shaping up to be a real threat in the Western Conference. And if Doncic continues to play with this kind of energy and confidence, the Lakers might just be getting started.
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