Luka Doncic credited his teammates’ defensive focus as key to closing out Tuesday’s 111-103 win over New Orleans. “They had 17 points in the fourth quarter, which is a great effort by us… we lock in down the stretch,” Doncic said.
The star guard highlighted a key sequence with LeBron James in the fourth quarter. “That second three in the fourth… LeBron just had a big reaction… he started the quarter with two threes and then an assist. He got us back into the game,” he explained.
Doncic emphasized the growing on-court chemistry with James. “Probably understanding better what we want for each other… just communication on court,” he said, noting that their teamwork is improving game by game.
He also praised Deandre Ayton’s impact in the paint. “He was playing great basketball, especially in the second half on both sides of the floor… he helps us a lot,” Doncic said.
Dalton Knecht made a mark in the fourth quarter, according to Doncic. “DK charged… his first career charge, but it got everybody hyped… it was winning time,” he added.
On handling back-to-back games, Doncic kept it simple. “Just trying to get some sleep, get a massage… the most important thing is go to sleep as soon as I can,” he said, reflecting the discipline needed to maintain peak performance.
Doncic also marveled at James’ athleticism at 41. “It’s insane… probably me at 41, I’ll be limping around… it’s incredible to watch every day,” he said, praising his teammate’s continued dominance.
The Lakers, now 23-11, relied on an 18-4 fourth-quarter run to overcome the Pelicans, who were led by Trey Murphy’s career-high 41 points. Doncic finished with 30 points and 10 assists, while James also scored 30, and Ayton added 18 points and 11 rebounds.
