Luka Doncic led the Los Angeles Lakers to a dominant road victory over the Denver Nuggets on Saturday night. The game marked the Lakers’ first win in Denver since the end of the 2022 regular season.
Doncic finished with 32 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists, and four steals, displaying a well-rounded performance that impressed coach JJ Redick. “He controlled the game when he had the ball, made some great decisions,” Redick said. Doncic’s ability to handle the pick-and-roll defense posed by Nikola Jokic was particularly effective.
Doncic himself acknowledged that this game felt like a step towards returning to form after missing six weeks with a calf strain. “Tonight was a baby step” he said, reflecting on his journey back into game shape.
Coach Redick’s plan for the team’s offense remains centered around Doncic, who will be expected to control the pace of the game. James and Reaves will also get their share of touches, but with experience operating off the ball, they can create mismatches and help build chemistry with the team.
In a pre-game interview, Redick told Doncic he needed him to have a “blackout moment,” which came in the form of an emotional outburst after hitting a three-pointer at the end of the first half. The Lakers’ new coach was pleased with this development, seeing it as a sign that Doncic is finally finding his rhythm.
Source: https://lakersnation.com/jj-redick-luka-doncic-will-control-lakers-offense