Lakers Notes: Doncic, Smart, Ayton, Reaves, NBA Cup

Lakers Notes: Doncic’s Historic Start

Luka Doncic became only the second player in NBA history, after Wilt Chamberlain, to score over 40 points in each of his first three games of a season. Returning from injury on Friday, Doncic scored 44 points in a win over Memphis, marking a rare achievement.

Injury and Performance

Doncic had missed three previous games due to a sprained finger on his left hand and a contusion on his lower left leg. Despite this, his scoring prowess remained unmatched.

“I mean, I feel great,” Doncic said when informed about joining Chamberlain in this category, according to Dave McMenamin of ESPN. “But obviously, if we get a win, I feel even better. So that’s the whole point, trying to help the team to win. And sometimes it’s going to be scoring, sometimes other things.”

Statistical Achievements

“That’s going to be tough,” Doncic admitted about maintaining this pace. “Sometimes they’re going to double me more. Sometimes I won’t be able to score that much. I had, I think, three or four shots that were crazy shots that I felt like doing, but they were terrible shots. I don’t know.”

Team Dynamics

The Lakers appear to be improving without LeBron James, with the decision to part ways with him looking easier as the season progresses. The team’s current success suggests they are stronger and more cohesive without him.

Author’s Summary

Luka Doncic’s scoring feats put him in elite company while the Lakers' evolving roster shows promising strength beyond their former superstar.

more

Hoops Rumors Hoops Rumors — 2025-11-02

More News