Lakers superstar Luka Doncic scored 34 points, including 20 in the first quarter, to lead Los Angeles to a 133-121 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday at Crypto.com Arena.
“Those games are kind of hard,” Doncic said about the team holding a 20-point lead but winning by just 12. “The lessons are just keep doing what we’re doing… keep doing seven, so keep doing what we do.”
Deandre Ayton contributed a double-double with 22 points and 12 rebounds, earning praise from Doncic. “He’s a big thing for us, big help on winning the games. We appreciate him. Keep going like that. He’s playing amazing,” Doncic said.
The point guard also highlighted the team’s ball security, noting, “We only had eight turnovers tonight… That probably starts with me. Got to take care of the ball more… that means more shots or more probability to make shots.”
Austin Reaves added 33 points and eight assists, forming a dynamic backcourt with Doncic. “I think we’re just good basketball players. I don’t know what made it special, but I think we’re just good basketball players,” Doncic said.
Reflecting on playing in a back-to-back, Doncic downplayed the impact of minutes played. “Honestly, I don’t know… five, six minutes won’t do anything. Not a big difference. We’ll be ready for tomorrow,” he said.
The 20th game of the season marks a milestone for the Lakers, who currently hold a 15-4 record. Doncic assessed the team’s progress succinctly: “Like I said before, just keep doing what we’re doing. I think that’s a great record. So, keep doing the same thing.”
Despite missing LeBron James due to a sore left foot, Los Angeles relied on an efficient first quarter to gain control, outscoring New Orleans 46-27 and building a lead that carried through halftime at 77-57.
Saddiq Bey led the Pelicans with 22 points and 11 rebounds, while Bryce McGowens added 23 points. New Orleans was shorthanded without Zion Williamson and Trey Murphy III, limiting their ability to keep pace with the Lakers’ balanced attack.
Los Angeles will look to extend its winning streak against the Phoenix Suns on Monday, while the Pelicans aim to rebound against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday.
