Luka Doncic scored 43 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 137-130 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Speaking to reporters after the game, Doncic reflected on his team’s performance during a grueling road trip.
“Yeah, we knew they’re going to play hard for 48 minutes. You know, that’s what kind of team they are. So obviously we got to let it go a little bit in the fourth. I think everybody was a little bit tired. It’s been a long trip, but we got the win at the end. That’s what matters,” he said.
The Lakers, who are now 10-1 in their last 11 games, extended a streak of scoring at least 30 points in each contest from Doncic. He acknowledged the impact of Jaxson Hayes, who added 21 points and 10 rebounds despite the team playing without Deandre Ayton. “Very important. You know, he always plays good when he needs to. Today was a big example of what he can do. I think he did an amazing job today,” Doncic stated.
Doncic also addressed the presence of Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever star and sideline photographer. “Not really much, but I’m a big fan for sure. I watch a lot of games. Definitely her hooping, it’s great to watch. Got to go in one game to see her,” he commented.
On the contributions of Bronny James, who played a key role off the bench, Doncic highlighted his development and confidence. “Definitely big improvement from last year. I saw him in training camp doing some stuff that I was really impressed with. Today was a great job, a big game for him. That pull-up two was probably one of the most important shots of the game. They were coming back, and he hits that one,” he said.
The Lakers jumped out to an early 10-point lead and maintained control despite Indiana trimming the deficit to 131-124 with 45 seconds left. LeBron James and Austin Reaves combined for 48 points to support Doncic, while the Pacers were led by Pascal Siakam’s 20 points and Andrew Nembhard’s career-high 19 assists.
Los Angeles played without key players Rui Hachimura and Marcus Smart, who both missed their second consecutive game, and Ayton, sidelined with back spasms. Tyrese Haliburton returned to Indiana’s bench after missing a month due to shingles, though he remains out for the season.
Looking ahead, the Lakers will host the Brooklyn Nets on Friday, while the Pacers prepare to face the Los Angeles Clippers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
