The Lakers returned to form with a statement victory at Crypto.com Arena on Friday, October 24, dispatching the Minnesota Timberwolves 128-110 in a performance highlighted by Luka Dončić’s remarkable scoring outburst. Dončić poured in 49 points, dazzling a sold-out crowd and setting the tone Los Angeles needed with star LeBron James still sidelined. The contagious energy on the court and in the stands felt similar to the rush of online slots, with every Dončić bucket bringing fresh excitement.
This win bumped the Lakers to 1-1 on the young season, erasing the sting of their opening loss against Golden State. There was a palpable sense of urgency from the opening tip, and Dončić wasted no time establishing control. He dropped 23 points in the first quarter alone, tying Kobe Bryant and Kyle Kuzma for the most points in a single opening quarter in Lakers history. The Lakers never looked back.
Dončić’s Historic Night
Dončić is living up to every inch of superstar billing in his first year with the Lakers, setting records and quickly becoming the face of the franchise. He followed up his 43-point opener with a new high watermark in purple and gold, becoming just the fourth player in NBA history to start a season with consecutive 40-point games. The others? Michael Jordan, Wilt Chamberlain, and Anthony Davis, who was traded to Dallas last winter in the blockbuster deal that brought Dončić to Los Angeles.
Dončić’s stat line was complete: 14-for-23 shooting, five made three-pointers, 16-of-19 from the foul line, 11 rebounds, and eight assists. His relentless attack put pressure on every level of Minnesota’s defense. From one-legged fadeaways to deep threes and bruising post-ups, Dončić was the blueprint for a modern NBA offensive engine.
He capped off his night with a crowd-thrilling three that ballooned Los Angeles’s lead to 19, shimmying for the fans before taking a seat to a standing ovation with just over three minutes left. While he missed a chance for a fifty-point night, Dončić still set a Lakers record with 91 points across the team’s first two games, surpassing Jerry West’s mark from the 1969-70 season.
Supporting Cast Steps Up
The Lakers’ depth showed encouraging signs, especially with established stars out due to injury. Deandre Ayton, acquired in the offseason, offered toughness and rim protection against a physical Timberwolves front line, and coach JJ Redick had high praise for his focus and willingness to be coached. Young wings and role players kept up defensive pressure and moved the ball smartly, buying Dončić space and keeping Los Angeles on schedule.
Jaxson Hayes missed the contest with left knee soreness, and several bench contributors filled the rebounding and hustle void. The Timberwolves surged to a brief lead with a 40-point first quarter, but the Lakers adjusted defensively, holding Minnesota to just 16 points in the final frame. Redick emphasized postgame that the team spent considerable practice focusing on defensive fundamentals and mental preparation, and the results showed in the second half.
LeBron’s Injury Looms Over Early Season
LeBron James remains out and has yet to play a minute this season. The Lakers are prioritizing his long-term health while he deals with nerve irritation, specifically sciatic pain on his right side. The four-time champion is undergoing ongoing therapy and will be reevaluated in early November. Head Coach JJ Redick confirmed that James is “on his own timeline” and that the organization will not rush his return.
James’ absence put additional pressure on Dončić and opened opportunities for others to catch the spotlight. Depending on his progress, James could be back within weeks, but with a player who built success on athleticism and core power, the cautious approach is wise.
Lakers Eyeing Deep Playoff Run
Fresh off the win, Los Angeles sees some optimism in the title race, even with the early challenge of injuries. With Dončić in MVP form and LeBron expected back, the Lakers still command respect across the league and at major sportsbooks. William Hill currently lists the Lakers at +1200 to win the 2026 NBA Championship, placing them among the upper tier of contenders but outside the top favorites. The Thunder (+265) and Nuggets (+800) headline the race, but bookmakers see Los Angeles as a threat as the roster rounds into shape.
Head Coach JJ Redick continues to mold the Lakers’ identity, blending veteran experience, high-level skill, and youthful energy. There are adjustments to make and health issues to monitor, but the combination of Dončić’s offensive wizardry and the eventual return of LeBron means the Lakers are built to compete night in and night out.
Looking Ahead
The Lakers’ following tests will determine how sustainable Dončić’s scoring outbursts prove and how resilient the supporting cast remains without James. If this early chemistry holds and defensive fundamentals continue to improve, Los Angeles should be a fixture in the playoff conversation throughout the season. Fans have reason to be bullish, with a superstar carrying the offense and the promise of future reinforcements.
The story is now with Luka Dončić—a dynamic talent who has turned the Lakers’ first week into a showcase. Each game brings a new highlight, each possession another reason to dream of banner number 18. The Lakers have arrived, and Dončić is leading the way.
