Luka Doncic made an emphatic return to the court after missing three games due to injury, putting up a dominant performance with 44 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 117-112 win over the Memphis Grizzlies in both teams’ opening NBA Cup matchup.
Slovenian star showed his all-around skill in his return, controlling the game and helping the Lakers secure the win against Memphis.
“It felt great to be back out there,” Doncic said after the game. “I just wanted to play hard and help my team get the win.”
Austin Reaves provided key support for Los Angeles, adding 21 points, while Jake LaRavia chipped in 13.
On the other side, Spain’s Santi Aldama contributed seven points and 10 rebounds for the Grizzlies, who battled throughout but couldn’t overcome Doncic’s stellar night.
The Lakers were once again without LeBron James, who continues to recover from right-sided sciatica.
Doncic and Nikola Vucevic led the European charge last night, while Nikola Jokic didn't have a triple-double and the Nuggets losthttps://t.co/0VfDFaALyb
— Eurohoops (@Eurohoopsnet) November 1, 2025
