Luka Doncic addressed Friday’s 105-101 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks at Crypto.com Arena, admitting his performance fell short in key moments. “I think we missed a couple good shots… I fouled, I had six fouls, first time in a long time. So that’s when we can fall on the three-pointer,” he said.
On Kevin Porter Jr.’s decisive free throws, Doncic deferred to the referees. “I don’t think he shoots like that, but the referee said it was a foul, so I guess it’s a foul,” he said.
Doncic reflected on late-game execution after Los Angeles briefly took the lead. “Probably I could execute better for sure… my shot didn’t go well today… could have better shots,” he admitted.
Despite early success, Doncic struggled in the paint after questionable calls. “I missed the shots I usually make… those little floaters in the paint… just today it was a terrible day for me,” he said.
He praised his teammate Jaxson Hayes for helping the Lakers’ fourth-quarter surge. “I love playing with him down the stretch… we have a great chemistry… he’s improved so much… really glad he’s on the team,” Doncic said.
Milwaukee star Giannis Antetokounmpo played a pivotal role in the Bucks’ comeback, blocking a layup and stealing the ball from LeBron James on consecutive possessions. Kevin Porter Jr. scored 22 points, including four clutch free throws, helping Milwaukee rally to its fifth win in seven games.
Doncic finished with 24 points and nine assists, while LeBron James added 26 points, 10 assists, and nine rebounds. The Lakers erased a double-digit deficit with a 17-4 run in the fourth quarter but fell short as Porter and Giannis controlled the final possessions.
Luka’s comments highlighted the impact of missed opportunities and foul trouble on the team’s late-game chances. “Probably I could execute better… my shot didn’t go well… could have better shots,” he reiterated, emphasizing accountability.
Los Angeles’ supporting cast struggled with Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura sidelined, although Hachimura may return next week. The Lakers dropped to 23-13, while the Bucks improved to 17-21 and will visit Denver on Sunday.
