Luka Doncic’s outstanding performance was the key to the Lakers’ victory over the Denver Nuggets, with 32 points, 10 rebounds, 7 assists, and 4 steals. As LeBron James put it, “This is Luka that we have all been used to seeing for the past 7 years.” Doncic’s impressive game helped the Lakers break their streak in Denver, which had lasted since April 10, 2022.
Doncic, who had missed the previous game against the Portland Trail Blazers, returned to the starting lineup and led the team to a 100-123 win. He was the Lakers player who shot the most, with 22 attempts, and made 10 of his 22 shots, including 4 of 9 three-pointers and a perfect 8 of 8 from the free throw line in 30 minutes of play.
The Lakers’ goal, as Doncic stated, is to win the championship, and they seem to have the team to achieve it. Doncic’s performance was complemented by the rest of the team, with LeBron James contributing 25 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists, Austin Reaves signing 23 points and 7 assists, and Rui Hachimura adding 21 points, although he ended the game with physical discomfort.
Doncic acknowledged that he finally feels like himself after recognizing a few days ago that he was still “oxidized” and needed time to recover his best physical form. According to journalist Shams Charania, Luka worked with Scott Brooks every day during the All-Star break to get back in shape.
Doncic’s chemistry with LeBron James
The chemistry between Doncic and LeBron James is growing with each game. In fact, the Lakers’ victory featured the first “Alley Up” between Doncic and LeBron James, a play that showcases their understanding on the court. LeBron compared their connection to the NFL, saying, “I am a born receiver and he is a born quarterback, so it fits perfectly.”
Another double triple of Jokic and end to the Nuggets streak
The Nuggets, who had a 9-game winning streak, saw Nikola Jokic sign a double triple with 12 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists, while Aaron Gordon contributed 24 points and Jamal Murray added 19. Russell Westbrook came off the bench to score 17 points. Despite their efforts, the Nuggets’ streak came to an end with the loss to the Lakers.