Luka Doncic is a big-game player who relishes clutch moments, and that was made apparent in his performance against the Denver Nuggets.
The Nuggets gave the Lakers issues for a couple of years, but Doncic’s arrival last season has swung the matchup in the purple and gold’s favor. Since Los Angeles acquired Doncic, they’ve beaten Denver three times thanks to their new superstar’s offensive brilliance.
In the latest iteration of the two teams’ rivalry, the Lakers were the ones who had the last laugh as they squeaked out a 127-125 win in overtime. Austin Reaves’ fourth quarter heroics forced the extra period, but it was Doncic who sealed the deal with a tough baseline jumper to give Los Angeles the win.
The crowd at Crypto.com Arena was loud the entire night as the game itself had the same intensity as a playoff game. Following the win, Doncic admitted that the environment and crowd were the best they’ve been since he joined the storied franchise.
“I feel like it was the best atmosphere since I was a Laker. The whole crowd was in, it was special to witness that. Hopefully it happens more times, I had goosebumps a little bit.”
The Lakers faithful were definitely into the game from the opening tip as everyone understood the circumstances and what was at stake. Los Angeles needed a win over a team like Denver to prove their legitimacy as title contenders and they surely helped change the national perception of their squad.
Doncic has already had numerous moments since donning the purple and gold, but his performance against the Nuggets will go down as one of his best. Not only did Doncic hit the game winner, but he also had a triple-double of 30 points, 13 assists and 11 rebounds. Doncic can fill up a box score in a hurry and Los Angeles needed everything out of him to earn the win.
It’s just one victory, but it’s the kind that can galvanize a group like the Lakers who are pushing full steam ahead toward the postseason. The schedule only gets tougher from here, so it’ll be interesting to see how Doncic follows things up on the road.
Luka Doncic praises pick-and-roll chemistry with Deandre Ayton
Deandre Ayton has been a key part of the Lakers’ success recently, defending the paint and setting great screens before rolling hard to the rim. Luka Doncic has been able to find Ayton for easy baskets all season and praised their pick and roll chemistry.
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